Malaysia. Khalid: Brace for challenges brought on by ageing society
KUALA Lumpur should brace itself for an ageing population and climate change.
Federal Territories Minister Khalid Abdul Samad said proper city planning, development and management was critical as 77% of the country’s population lived in cities.
“A large population in our cities will mean urbanisation challenges such as solid waste disposal, traffic congestion, air pollution, limited water resources, inadequate supply of housing and an increase in ageing population.
“Malaysia will become an ageing society by 2040 in which almost 20% will be 65 years old and above, bringing about new challenges in health services and suitable physical city environments,” he said.
“In 2020, Kuala Lumpur will have 2.2 million people, with slightly more than half a million households.
“The city will have 25% young population, which will mean an increasing need for new affordable housing, employment and job creation, as well as everyday needs such as recreational spaces and transportation.
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