Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye's vision for Malaysia entails a collaborative approach where each stakeholder recognises their respective roles and contribute meaningfully to social progress — MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/The Star
PUTRAJAYA: Prominent social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye (pic) has been honoured with the Special Seniors Award in the men's category, recognising his over 50 years of dedicated service in various fields such as workers’ rights, anti-corruption, and crime prevention.
Lee, 78, a native of Ipoh, Perak, and a former Bukit Bintang Member of Parliament for more than 20 years, expressed his gratitude for the award. He described it as a meaningful recognition of the contributions made by senior citizens in Malaysia.
"Even though the services were rendered in their youth, they have contributed significantly to the country. I believe those who are still healthy can continue to contribute to society," said Lee, who also served as the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health chairman.
The award presentation took place at the 2024 National Senior Citizens Day celebration, themed 'Ageing with Dignity: Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons'.
Women, Family and Community Development Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad launched the eWarga Emas portal.
The portal aims to enhance productivity and efficiency in managing the elderly population, providing access to job opportunities and related facilities.
Noraini highlighted the eWarga Emas portal as one of eight initiatives by the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry, which also include the PAWE@3A Senior Citizens Empowerment programme, strengthening institutions for the elderly, drafting the Senior Citizens Bill, and preparing the Care Industry Action Plan.
According to Statistics Department projections, Malaysia will become an ageing nation by 2030, with 15.3% of the population aged 60 and above.
Commenting on the Senior Citizens Bill, Lee remarked it is timely for Malaysia to have specific legislation safeguarding the welfare, rights, and empowerment of the elderly, as mentioned by Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri on June 24.
