ASEAN-ROK delegation visits Woodrose Senior Residences and highlights the urgency of regional elder care collaboration.
SHAH ALAM, July 4, 2025: A high-level delegation from the ASEAN+Republic of Korea (ROK) Conference on Care and Support for Older Persons visited Woodrose Senior Residences today, underscoring the growing regional commitment to improving eldercare systems amid shifting demographic trends.
The delegation, which included senior health and welfare officials from ASEAN member states and South Korea, toured the premier senior living facility in Selangor. Among them was Kwak Sunheon, Director-General of the Health Policy Bureau, Ministry of Health and Welfare of the Republic of Korea.
Woodrose Group Executive Chairman Abdul Rashid Bernard Lawrence said the visit showcased Woodrose’s integrated model of care, which balances medical excellence with emotional and spiritual support—particularly for Malaysia’s Muslim elderly population.
“Our approach demonstrates that eldercare must go beyond physical health. It should respect cultural values while ensuring clinical standards. This visit reaffirms that eldercare is no longer a domestic concern but a regional imperative,” said Abdul Rashid.
Delegates explored the facility’s medical and rehabilitation units, interactive community spaces, and private residential quarters. The tour was also attended by officials from Malaysia’s Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development.
Malaysia, which officially became an aging nation in 2024 with 8.1% of its population aged 65 and above, is expected to see that number climb to 14.5% by 2040. Similar aging trends are emerging across Southeast Asia, placing mounting pressure on public healthcare systems and traditional family caregiving structures.
“In many ASEAN countries, the traditional model of family-based eldercare is no longer sustainable due to urban migration, shrinking household sizes, and the rising cost of living,” Abdul Rashid noted. “This is why institutional care must become a central component of public health strategy.”
Dr. Satish Ranggayah, Undersecretary of the International Relations Division at the Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development, said the visit aimed to deepen regional cooperation and enhance human capital development in eldercare services.
“Sustainable eldercare requires cross-border collaboration. Facilities like Woodrose serve as important learning platforms for the region as we seek to build resilient, culturally appropriate models of care,” said Dr. Satish.
Woodrose Senior Residences is recognized for its Shariah-compliant, holistic approach to senior living. Its comprehensive services include long-term residential care, dementia and memory care, physiotherapy and rehabilitation, as well as short-term stays and adult day-care programs.
With several branches across Selangor, Woodrose not only provides high-quality care for older adults but also much-needed reassurance to families who are navigating a rapidly aging society.