Prof Datuk Norma Mansor, director of Universiti Malaya’s Social Wellbeing Research Centre, advocates for urgently strengthening Malaysia's social security framework as it rapidly transitions into an aged society. She stresses that social protection is a strategic investment, not just a safety net, critical for addressing challenges in retirement adequacy, healthcare financing and long-term care as traditional family support weakens.
With older persons projected to hit 15% of the population by 2040, she calls for inclusive reforms to expand coverage to women, low-income and informal workers, supported by digital innovation. Prof. Norma highlights the central role of the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) in anchoring a comprehensive future system covering work, retirement and healthcare, promoting equity and resilience for all vulnerable groups.
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