From left: AGECOPE EXCO Members: Shan (National Treasurer and Kedah Chairman), Muntoh (National Secretary), Che Puan Intan (Kuala Lumpur Chairwoman), Michelle Yee (Selangor Chairwoman), Olivia Quah (Deputy National Secretary), and Delren Douglas (National President).

It was truly an honour for #iElder to take part in The New Frontiers in the Care Economy Conference held on 4–5 November in Kuala Lumpur, organized by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development. This ASEAN-level event brought together a remarkable mix of policymakers, innovators, and advocates, all united by one shared vision: building a more caring and sustainable future for our ageing population

The theme -“Exploring models of sustainable, inclusive, responsive, and equitable care for ASEAN and the region”- couldn’t have been more timely. As Malaysia and its neighbours move toward becoming ageing societies, the question of who cares for the carers and how we value their work has become urgent.

Pictured to the left: Yang Berhormat Dato' Sri Nancy Shukri, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development 

At our booth, we were proud to showcase our “Ageing in Place” bedroom, featuring a Made in Malaysia bed designed with safety, independence, and dignity in mind. Every feature, from its ergonomic height to its easy transfer design, reflects a belief that ageing gracefully begins with thoughtful design. It was heartening to see local innovation standing proudly alongside regional efforts in reshaping the care landscape.

Key Takeaway: Beyond Innovation - Towards Policy and Protection

While technology and design play a vital role in transforming eldercare, the conference also brought critical policy discussions to the forefront.

During the Policy Dialogue on Migrant Workers, I joined a group comprising government officials, academics, and ministry representatives from Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Australia, along with representatives from the United Nations

The conversation centered on one pressing topic: A recurring theme was the care economy as an economic engine.

As Malaysia continues to be a receiving country, it is crucial for sending countries, such as the Philippines, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Indonesia, to advocate for Malaysia to formally open a sector for caregivers. This would not only provide legal and professional recognition to care workers but also ensure better safeguards, fair wages, and proper training.

Oliva Quah (Centre Left) with the Secretary of State for Equality, Ms Elvina Sousa (Centre Right) from the Government of Timor-Leste, with the rest of the staff members from the secretariat 

Such a move would mark a turning point for ASEAN, aligning our care systems with both economic needs and human rights. It’s encouraging that this issue will be brought to the ASEAN Ministers’ level, signaling the start of a regional dialogue that has been long overdue.

The iElder Team at the Conference

Thought-Provoking Questions That Shaped the Conference

The sessions throughout the event offered deep reflections on what the “care economy of the future” could look like. Some standout questions included:

What infrastructure must exist for care services to be a fundamental right, not a luxury?

How do we balance automation and AI with preserving the human touch in caregiving?

Who will care for the caregivers, and how can we make this a respected profession for youth?

What policy innovations can move Malaysia from institutional care to ageing-in-place ecosystems?

These questions remind us that building a resilient care economy is not only about facilities or financing, it’s about values, equity, and community connection.

Looking Ahead ➡️➡️

As we reflect on these two days of rich dialogue and collaboration, one message stands out clearly:

The future of care in ASEAN will depend on how well we our elders, empower our caregivers, and embrace innovation without losing compassion. 

Malaysia has the potential to lead, through inclusive policies, local innovations such as the iElder bedroom, and regional cooperation that truly puts people at the heart of progress.

Ms. Atiqah (Pictured left), a representative from the Government of Brunei, with Olivia Quah, General Manager of AIM Healthcare and iElder

Final Thoughts 🌸

I felt both inspired and grounded. The conference wasn’t just a policy event; it was a reminder of our shared humanity. The care economy is not a niche issue anymore. It’s the next frontier of inclusive growth, and Malaysia has just taken a bold step forward. Here’s to more conversations, more collaboration, and more care, for each other and for the world we’re building together.

iElder product showcase during the event

Designed for Comfort. Crafted for Care — iElder Signature Bedrooms

Designed for Comfort. Crafted for Care. 🌱

Discover how iElder’s Signature Bedroom Collection turns thoughtful design into meaningful support for ageing in place. Each piece, from electrically adjustable beds to carefully selected bedding and accessories, is built to promote safety, independence, and dignity for seniors. More than just furniture, this collection creates a restful environment tailored to both everyday life and care needs.

#AgeingInPlace #CareEconomy #ActiveAgeing #MadeInMalaysia #iElder #ASEAN #MigrantWorkers #Eldercare #InclusiveGrowth

AIM Healthcare Directors (Pictured in the Middle)  with representatives from Cambodia on a site visit to discuss future collaboration opportunities

About the author:

iElder is a trusted leader in senior care solutions, dedicated to improving the quality of life for the elderly through innovative products and thoughtful design. With a focus on comfort, safety, and independence, iElder provides premium healthcare and lifestyle solutions that bring dignity and ease to everyday living.