ECONOMIC VIABILITY OF CARE SECTOR

Since the establishment of Agecope in 2019, we've made several attempts, both at the national and state levels (specifically in Penang), to address the persistent issue of labor shortages. Ministries such as KPWKM, MOH, and the Home Ministry were approached, with four national-level attempts and two at the state level. This challenge has been a longstanding issue, tracing its roots back through time.

The closest we came to a meaningful discussion on this matter was during Hannah Yeoh's tenure as the deputy of KPWKM. Unfortunately, her time was cut short due to the Sheraton Move, and since then, changing governments has become a frequent occurrence. The onset of Covid-19 brought about a halt to economic activities, further complicating the labor shortage predicament.

Our National committee, consisting of the National Secretary, President, and Committee members, faced challenges during visits to Putrajaya. We found ourselves belittled by various MOH ministers, regardless of political affiliations. There was a prevailing perception that we were opportunistic, utilizing the association for personal financial gains, albeit implicitly.

Upon reflection, it became clear to me that our approach to the ministries was flawed. We presented our labor issues from a CARE perspective, relying on emotional appeals that lacked tangible benefits for the government or the country from a financial standpoint.

It's evident that we, along with other NGOs focused on the elderly, approached the government with a self-interest perspective, which isn't inherently wrong. However, we lacked the economic finesse needed for considerations by the various ministries. Our plea for support resembled the way we approached our parents to buy us a pair of Nike, and we need to acknowledge that our strategy needs a fundamental shift.

In the context of foreign labor for care centers, we've been seen as a cost sector. In conferences and meetings, terms like 'sustainability,' 'rising costs,' and 'financial aid' are recurrent, flowing like the Solo River – one-way, alone, and without reciprocation from authorities.

It's time for a paradigm shift. We must reconsider, reposition, and retell the care narratives from a business perspective. Care is not just a service; it's a vibrant and profitable business that significantly contributes to our society, community, and country. Care operators should be recognized as tax-paying entities, job creators, and economic supporters for local business communities.

There's a multiplier effect within the care industry, and we should be acknowledged as an essential part of nation-building. When care operators provide mental, emotional, and stress relief for family members, it enables them to concentrate on their businesses, becoming effective economic generators in their respective industries.

The entire care industry is built on the foundation of providing peace of mind for caregivers and family members, allowing them to continue their livelihood activities. Therefore, if we are a business that requires labor, there should be a designated sector or sub-sector for all operators to hire foreign labor.

FONG MUNTOH-NATIONAL SECRETARY AGECOPE