Public Lecture: Rebuilding Care Around Communities: Lessons from Japan for Malaysia's Ageing Future
SERDANG, 10 April 2026 – Japan’s experience in managing a rapidly ageing society offers valuable lessons for Malaysia as the nation prepares for a significant increase in its elderly population.
This was highlighted during a knowledge-sharing session and public talk organised by the Training and Education Resources on Ageing (TERA), Malaysian Research Institute on Ageing (MyAgeing®ï¸), Universiti Putra Malaysia,which was attended by 45 participants comprising researchers, healthcare professionals and students.
The session featured Ms. Kanoko Oishi, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of MEDIVA Inc., who shared Japan’s innovative and community-driven approach to elderly care. Japan is currently one of the world’s most aged societies, with about one-third of its population aged 65 and above and an average life expectancy of 84.2 years. This demographic trend has led to increasing demand for healthcare, long-term care services and support for elderly individuals living with dementia.
Ms. Oishi highlighted Japan’s “three-layer approach†which integrates self-care, community support and public care services supported by national insurance. She also shared the “Hospital at Home†model that enables patients to receive medical care in their homes with support from doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals.
The session provided valuable perspectives for Malaysia in strengthening community-based care and promoting healthy and independent ageing.