05/09/2026
*A Successful First Pro-Tem Meeting of Sabah Aged Care Service Providers*
Today, I had the privilege of chairing a discussion among representatives from eight aged care service providers and one caregiver training academy in Sabah.
The meeting, held from 10:00am to 12:30pm, brought together 12 participants who shared a common passion for serving older persons and supporting their families. We were also encouraged by the interest shown by two other operators who wished to attend but were unable to make it.
One of the most meaningful parts of the meeting was the introduction session, where participants shared: ✅ Their professional backgrounds
✅ How they became involved in aged care services
✅ When they started their services
✅ The personal reasons and experiences that inspired them to serve older persons
Although everyone came from different backgrounds and organizations, a common theme emerged throughout the discussions: a genuine commitment to improving the quality of life of older persons and preparing Sabah for a rapidly ageing population.
The participants also exchanged views on workforce development, caregiver training, quality standards, healthy ageing initiatives and the importance of greater collaboration within the aged care sector.
As there are still many important matters to consider, including future direction, objectives and structure, participants agreed to take time to reflect on the discussions and meet again on 3 October 2026.
I would like to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who participated and contributed their valuable ideas.
Special thanks to Mdm Ellen Yee of Passion Care Centre for generously sponsoring the meeting venue and refreshments, and for her assistance in facilitating the meeting.
Every meaningful journey begins with a conversation. Today's discussion was an encouraging first step towards building stronger cooperation for the benefit of older persons and their families in Sabah.
*"Today, we meet as individual care providers. Tomorrow, we build a community of collaboration for the future of ageing in Sabah."*