NEGLECT OF INDIGENT ELDERLY PARENTS IN MALAYSIA: A CURRENT LEGAL ANALYSIS IN CONTEMPORARY CONTEXT

Nur Rabiatuladawiah Abdul Rahman, Khairunnisa Ishak, Mohamad Haiqal Danial Hamdan

Abstract


The neglect of elderly, incapacitated parents by their adult children is an escalating concern in Malaysia’s ageing society. This article examines the issue from a legal perspective, analyzing existing Malaysian laws and identifying gaps in protections for vulnerable elderly parents. A qualitative doctrinal approach is used, reviewing statutory provisions (civil and Islamic family law) and related policies. The findings indicate that current legal frameworks – including the Penal Code, Domestic Violence Act 1994, and Islamic family law provisions – only partially address elder neglect, focusing mainly on physical abuse or spousal/child victims. Key legal lacunae are evident: there is no explicit statutory duty of adult children to support or care for ageing parents in civil law, and enforcement of Islamic maintenance obligations for parents remains weak. This has contributed to inadequate protection, as seen in rising cases of abandoned elderly parents. The article discusses comparative insights from jurisdictions like Singapore and India, where specific legislation mandates filial responsibility. It recommends legal reforms in Malaysia, including amending existing laws and enacting a dedicated Senior Citizens Act or Maintenance of Parents Act to impose clear responsibilities and penalties for neglect. Such reforms, coupled with strengthened social support and awareness, are crucial to safeguard the rights and welfare of incompetent elderly parents in line with Islamic principles, societal values, and international human rights standards. The conclusion calls for urgent, comprehensive legal intervention to ensure no elderly parent is left neglected or destitute.

Keywords


Welfare; Filial duty; Elder neglect; Incompetent elderly; Malaysia

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