Better Support For Elderly Needed Over Compulsory Care Law - Lee Lam Thye

KUALA LUMPUR, May 17 (Bernama) -- The government and society must place greater emphasis on strengthening support systems for senior citizens, including enhanced healthcare, stronger social protection, emotional support and accessible elderly care services, rather than relying on punitive laws, says social advocate Lee Lam Thye.

Commenting on the proposal by Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to consider introducing legislation requiring children to care for their elderly parents, Lee said the move may not be the ideal solution to address the issue.

He stressed that a caring society cannot depend solely on legislation, but must be built upon compassion, conscience, and strong family values.

“Parents devote their lives to raising their children, nurturing them with love, making sacrifices, and providing education, protection, and opportunities. It should therefore come from the heart, and not from fear of punishment, for children to care for their ageing parents," he said in a statement today.

While acknowledging that the proposal stems from increasing concerns over the abandonment of senior citizens, Lee cautioned that using legal compulsion to enforce filial piety reflects a deeper erosion of societal values that must be addressed at its roots.

To address this, Lee urged schools, communities, religious bodies, and families to continuously instil the importance of filial piety, gratitude, and empathy.

He noted that comprehensive campaigns promoting family values and stronger moral education would go a long way in reinforcing these familial bonds.

“Ultimately, no law can truly replace genuine love and gratitude. The best care for parents comes from the heart, not from compulsion," he said.

-- BERNAMA