By Selangor Journal Team
SHAH ALAM, Sept 26 — The Selangor government is set to introduce respite programmes and online training for caregivers to strengthen the care economy framework, said state executive councillor for women empowerment and welfare Anfaal Saari.
These are among the key highlights of the first draft of the Selangor Care Economy Policy 2024-2030, which was presented to her recently.
According to Anfaal, these initiatives aim to equip caregivers with crucial skills for managing patients at home while also providing support for their well-being.
In addition, she said the state is exploring ways to position the care economy as a viable investment, aiming to attract capital to expand the industry, meet growing demand and ensure caregivers earn a livable wage.
“Among our discussions is making the care sector a focus area for investment so more care-related industries can grow in Selangor and more people can be involved in the care economy. We can increase incentives for this industry.
“We also aim to empower caregivers through online training, because we understand that many cannot leave those under their care to attend in-person sessions. With online training, they can improve the quality of their caregiving from home.
“Additionally, we are promoting ‘respite care’ for full-time caregivers, such as housewives, giving them the opportunity for a much-needed break,” she said in a thread on X yesterday.
Anfaal said a key challenge in the care economy is the growing demand for caregivers while the supply remains limited.
She pointed out that Selangor faces a unique situation as many working residents tend to bring their elderly parents from rural areas to live with them in the state due to its abundance of care homes and medical facilities.
“One of the key issues is that caregivers’ work performance and quality of life are often affected by their responsibilities.
“For example, an adult child caring for elderly parents may struggle to get married or maintain a career, leading to significant life disruptions. In some cases, caregivers fall ill themselves while tending to the sick.
“The care economy aims to encourage the sharing of caregiving responsibilities between men and women in the family, between families and the community, and between the government and the private sector. This is to elevate the status of caregivers and safeguard those in their care.”
This draft of the policy was formulated in collaboration with experts in the field, industry representatives and other key stakeholders.
Previously, Anfaal had said the first draft was expected to be presented to a research group on September 11, before a feedback session is held with state assemblymen in early October.
Following this, she said revisions may be made to the first draft and later proposed as a motion in the State Legislative Assembly. If all goes to plan, the policy is expected to be launched in November.
