MIRI: Individuals aged 60 and above are advised to take advantage of healthcare services provided under the Senior Citizen Health Benefits (SCHB) programme and the ‘Kenyalang Gold Card’ initiative.
Speaking to guests at a Majlis Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri event held at the Senior Citizen Service Centre (PPWE) today, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts I (Tourism) Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew emphasised the importance of these initiatives in ensuring the wellbeing of the elderly population.
“The SCHB healthcare programme is designed specifically to assist our senior citizens in accessing immediate medical care during emergencies.
“This scheme allows them to seek prompt medical check-ups at participating private clinics, helping to alleviate the pressure on government hospitals by reducing long wait times,” he said.
In addition to healthcare services, Ting highlighted the benefits of the ‘Kenyalang Gold Card’, which provides seniors with special discounts and privileges at a variety of stores and businesses partnering with the Sarawak Welfare Department.
“We extend our gratitude to the businesses participating in this scheme and call upon more shops to join us in supporting our senior citizens. Our goal is to provide greater convenience and benefits, allowing them to live with peace of mind and dignity,” he added.
During the gathering, Ting also celebrated the essence of Sarawak’s rich cultural diversity and communal harmony.
“This centre exemplifies the mosaic of Sarawak, where 34 ethnic groups coexist in peace and unity. Our diversity in food and culture is something we cherish, and we take pride in our ability to live together as one big family,” he said.
Wee Ah Siew, chairman of PPWE, echoed Ting’s sentiments, expressing the importance of community spirit and the treasures of togetherness fostered within the centre.
“We are here to celebrate not only our cultural differences but also the wonderful moments we share as a community,” he said.
