Perak Targets 1,200 Seniors For WE FIT 2026 Programme – Exco

IPOH, April 30 (Bernama) -- The Perak government is targeting 1,200 senior citizens to participate in the Warga Emas Fit (WE FIT) 2026 programme, which will be implemented at 12 locations across the state from April to October this year.

State Women, Family, Social Welfare, Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Committee chairman Datuk Salbiah Mohamed said the programme, introduced last year, is among the state government’s initiatives to address the issue of ageing population in Perak.

“Based on statistics from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), Perak has reached an ageing state status, with 14.6 per cent of its population comprising senior citizens as of 2023.

“This development underscores the urgent need to strengthen initiatives that emphasise physical health, mental well-being and social engagement among the elderly,” she told reporters after officiating the WE FIT Kepayang state assembly programme at Dewan Greentown, Flat Ashby Road, here today.

Salbiah said the programme also plays a role in strengthening social connections, preventing social isolation and reducing the number of inactive elderly individuals at risk of becoming bedridden.

She said the programme’s initial rollout had shown positive impact among participants, including improvements in physical and emotional fitness and renewed involvement in community activities.

“An evaluation found that 100 per cent of 329 respondents agreed that the programme should be continued in the future, in addition to successfully creating a healthy space for social interaction, thereby supporting the overall well-being of senior citizens,” she said.

Activities under the WE FIT programme include aerobics sessions, health screenings, awareness talks, mind therapy and agency exhibitions focusing on improving the participants’ mobility and cognitive functions.

“We hope the programme will produce healthier, more active and resilient senior citizens, and at the same time contribute to the development of an inclusive, dynamic and high-quality community in the state,” she said.

-- BERNAMA