Page 160 - IJPS-11-6

International Journal of
Population Studies Urban poverty framework for B40 in Malaysia

Figure 3. The responsive urban poverty framework for the post-working age group (60+ years)

4.4. Post-working age group (60+ years) defined eligibility criteria, can offer consistent healthcare
In addition to addressing the needs of the urban poor, access to this age group. Government support for medical
this framework recognizes the importance of proactive subsidies can be expanded to include outpatient care and
rural development. By strengthening rural economies specialist treatment, reducing reliance on out-of-pocket
and expanding access to education and social services, expenses.
the framework aims to alleviate the rural push factors Business and entrepreneurship support is another pillar
that contribute to urban poverty. These strategies include of the framework. While seniors are often classified as non-
fostering rural entrepreneurship, improving educational productive, many remain capable of contributing to the
quality, and generating local employment opportunities. economy through small-scale enterprises. Programs such
Such interventions not only enhance rural living as TEKUN Nasional are providing microloans to this group.
conditions but also reduce urban congestion by minimizing Future initiatives may include entrepreneurship training
economically driven migration. programs focusing on digital skills, financial literacy, and

This responsive urban poverty framework not only business model innovation. Establishing a senior citizen
focuses on the working age group but also addresses the entrepreneurship fund and incentive schemes for active
challenges faced by the post-working age group, specifically retirees would further empower older adults to engage in
those aged 60 and over (Figure 3). In this study, 57.2% of the economic activities and reduce financial dependence.
respondents were from the working age group (40 – 59 years Additional financial assistance programs, such as
old), who will transition into the elderly category within utility bill subsidies and cash transfers, remain crucial in
a few years, emphasizing the need to develop sustainable supporting daily living costs for the elderly. Initiatives by
solutions for the post-working age group. the social welfare department provide a foundation, but
As illustrated in Figure 3, the framework for the post- expanded coverage and targeted utility subsidies such as
working age group is designed to enhance quality of life those for electricity, water, and gas would help alleviate
through five key components: health insurance, business the burden on low-income seniors. The introduction of a
and entrepreneurship assistance, additional financial senior citizen health fund scheme, involving collaboration
support, sustainable housing programs, and social among the government, employers, and NGOs, could
protection. ensure access to long-term healthcare and essential
medicines.
Health insurance coverage plays a vital role in
safeguarding the well-being of senior citizens. Schemes Access to affordable and inclusive housing is another
such as long-term health insurance plans, coupled with major concern for the elderly. The establishment of a senior

Volume 11 Issue 6 (2025) 154 https://doi.org/10.36922/ijps.6558