ASEAN Sec-gen Calls For Collective Action On Ageing Population

JAKARTA, March 4 (Bernama) -- ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn has called for regional cooperation to tackle the challenges of an ageing population, as all ASEAN countries are set to become “ageing societies” within the next decade, with some on track to reach “super-aged” status.

He noted that at least 20 per cent of the population will be 65 or older within the next 10 years, highlighting the 2015 Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Ageing as a key framework for action.

“This demographic shift reflects both our progress and the need for a unified response,” he said at the Networking Dialogue with the ASEAN Centre for Active Ageing and Innovation (ACAI), held at the ASEAN Headquarters in Jakarta on Monday (March 3).

In a prerecorded address, Kao emphasised the growing importance of active ageing policies to address these demographic changes.

He commended the Permanent Mission of Thailand to ASEAN Phantipha Iamsudha Ekarohit for organising the event, which introduced ACAI’s new management team led by Executive Director Dr Somsak Akksilp.

Kao highlighted global initiatives, such as those from the World Health Organisation and the United Nations, which advocate for age-inclusive societies, emphasisng that active ageing plays a vital role in boosting economic productivity and social cohesion.

Kao reiterated ASEAN’s commitment to addressing these challenges through a shared responsibility approach, including integrating ageing-related issues into national development plans, strengthening healthcare systems for older adults, and promoting inter-generational cooperation.

“The success of ACAI’s mission depends on our collective and sustained efforts,” he added.

-- BERNAMA