MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM – Medan Mayor, Rico Waas, has officially launched the PKH Medan Makmur program, a new social assistance initiative aimed at supporting 10,000 senior citizens across the city. The announcement was made during the celebration of the 30th National Elderly Day (HLUN) at the city level, held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at the Medan Petisah District Office.
The program is designed to strengthen social protection for elderly residents, particularly those facing economic hardship or lacking adequate family support. Through this initiative, the Medan City Government seeks to improve the welfare and quality of life of older adults in the community.
Government Commitment to Social Justice for Seniors
Speaking at the event, Rico Waas emphasized that the launch of PKH Medan Makmur reflects the government's responsibility to ensure social justice for all segments of society.
"Many of our senior citizens live under difficult circumstances. Some no longer have close family members, while others do not receive sufficient support from their relatives. This is why the government must be present and ensure social justice for everyone—children, adults, and senior citizens alike. This is our responsibility," Rico Waas said.
He noted that the program specifically targets elderly individuals living alone and those with limited financial resources, helping them enjoy a more dignified and secure life in their later years.
"This is a policy decision that we have made deliberately. We hope it will bring positive benefits to the wider community," he added.
Mayor Calls for Greater Care and Respect for the Elderly
During the celebration, Rico Waas also urged government officials and the public to pay greater attention to the needs and well-being of senior citizens.
He reminded residents that aging is a natural stage of life that everyone will eventually experience.
"Let us make the most of our time while we are healthy and productive. One day, we too will become senior citizens. Therefore, we must respect, appreciate, and support our elderly community members," he said.
The 30th National Elderly Day celebration in Medan featured a series of health-focused and productive activities, including group exercise sessions, free health screenings, electrocardiogram (ECG) examinations, and the symbolic distribution of nutritional assistance packages for senior citizens.
Medan Petisah Recognized as Pioneer of Elderly Schools
Acting Head of the Medan Health Office, Dr. Henny Savitri, said the event forms part of the city government's commitment to improving the quality of life of senior citizens through preventive and health promotion programs integrated with primary healthcare services.
According to her, Medan Petisah was selected as the venue because it is home to the first Elderly School established in Medan. The district has since become a model for the development of similar programs in other areas of the city.
"We hope the success of Medan Petisah will create a domino effect and encourage other districts to establish Elderly Schools as well. Our goal is to ensure sustainable care and empowerment programs for senior citizens throughout Medan," Henny Savitri said.
She expressed hope that the achievements of Medan Petisah would inspire other districts to continue expanding and strengthening elderly empowerment initiatives across the city. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Teguh Panjaitan | EDITOR: Fik Sagala