For these Ipoh seniors, friendship is part of staying active

At Halaman Suri Sejahtera, senior citizens in Ipoh find joy in their daily activities and friendships. Lam Ah Liat and his wife Teoh Chei Soo, both 78 years old, spend their days coloring, crafting, participating in aerobics, and engaging in conversation. Lam appreciates the lively atmosphere and the opportunity to meet people from various backgrounds.

Tarmizi Pahat, a 72-year-old Felda retiree, finds comfort in the centre's calming environment and the chance to reminisce with others. Kuldeep Kaur Mohan Singh, 68, discovered the centre through the Senior Citizens Activity Centre (PAWE) and enjoys the games, artwork, and cooking workshops that help her feel happier and more connected.

The centre, established with RM600,000 from the Perak state government, offers recreational activities, lifelong learning, therapeutic programs, and psychosocial support to cater to the diverse needs of seniors. Perak Women and Community Development Secretariat director Jamilah Zakaria emphasized that the primary goal is to enhance the physical, mental, and social well-being of residents by providing a space for interaction, enjoyment, and support.