Penang To Pioneer RM35 Mln Independent Senior Living Home Project In Pongsu Seribu

By Erma Idayu Mohd Yusop

KEPALA BATAS, Oct 11 (Bernama) -- Penang is set to pioneer a RM35 million independent senior living home project, which will see the construction of 290 units on a 4.05-hectare site in Pongsu Seribu here.

Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP) president Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid said the project is being developed through a collaboration between MAINPP and the Retirement Fund Inc (KWAP) via its subsidiary, KWAP Estate Management (KWEST).

Mohamad, who is also Deputy Chief Minister I, said MAINPP welcomes Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Budget 2026 announcement yesterday, which included a commitment to develop independent senior living homes in Penang as a pilot model for similar projects in other states.

“The project will be implemented on MAINPP’s Baitulmal land. MAINPP will soon sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with KWAP.

“The land development is in line with the Prime Minister’s June 2024 announcement to prioritise the silver economy as the nation faces an ageing population. It also aligns with Penang’s Roadmap for Active Ageing launched in 2022,” he told Bernama today.

He said Penang is currently the second highest ageing state in Malaysia, with projections showing further growth in this demographic. Hence, the state must adapt to meet future needs by providing adequate facilities.

Mohamad said the independent senior living project will have various features, including affordable independent living, wellness and healthy lifestyle initiatives, health programmes, and recreational facilities.

“It will also include community integration and social activities, offering facilities and programmes for communal engagement, social interaction, and lifelong learning,” he added.

In addition to providing elderly care services, the development is expected to create job opportunities and generate future income for MAINPP.

He said according to the plan, services to be offered at the independent senior living home will include residential care, catering, laundry services, healthcare and emergency management, as well as facility maintenance and management.

“Additional features to be offered include spiritual and religious learning, educational programmes, social and community activities, recreational facilities that promote an active lifestyle, universal design focused on safety and accessibility, as well as financial planning and management services (optional),” he said.

-- BERNAMA