Caring for the elderly: a comparative study between Malaysia and Singapore / Fatin Shafira Ab Patah … [et al.]

This main purpose of this research is to analyze the inadequacy of the law, specifically related to the maintenance of the elderly in Malaysia. As of today, there is no specific law or provisions in Malaysia that regulates the issue of elderly maintenance. This lacuna of law happens amidst the increasing number of cases of elderly abandonment. Moreover, the plight, cases and sad stories of elderly neglect, abuse, abandonment and maintenance issues will be discussed as well. Furthermore, this research will delves deep into the current existing law, policies, programmes and services available to the elderly here in Malaysia and Singapore as well. A comparison will then be drawn between both countries in terms of elderly protection. In addition, the Singapore's Maintenance of Parents Act 1995 (MPA) will be the main highlights in this research. The process, procedures and requirements under MPA will be thoroughly examined. From that, guidelines, suggestion and commentaries will be provided in strengthening the current protection for the elderly in Malaysia together with the prospect of enacting a new maintenance law by having the MPA as a guideline. It is hope that this research will shed a light on the elderly plight in Malaysia with respect of having a Malaysia's own maintenance law, shaped by religion, culture and unique socio diversity.