Prof Ida Fatimawati Adi Badiozaman is the Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) at Swinburne Sarawak, with over 18 years of experience in research, academic leadership, and strategic partnerships. She champions women in leadership as Chair of Kerusi Kepimpinan Wanita Sarawak and leads the Women Empowerment and Entrepreneurship cluster under the Sarawak Women and Family Council. Her work aligns with Sarawak’s Post-COVID Strategy and Swinburne’s Research Masterplan 2030.

An award-winning researcher with over 25 publications since 2020, Prof Ida focuses on educational technology, gender equity, and higher education leadership. She also mentors women leaders and contributes to policy development locally and internationally.

Research on Preparation for An Ageing Sarawak: The Profile of & Ageing Issues of Older Persons
in Sarawak

Abstract

This study aims to support Sarawak’s readiness for an ageing population by 2028 through a comprehensive analysis of demographic trends, needs, and challenges faced by older persons.

It focuses on four key objectives:
(i) analysing current and projected population trends
(ii) identifying challenges in health, wellbeing, and socio-economic aspects
(iii) assessing needs across healthcare, social support, and financial services
(iv) evaluating existing programs and services.

A mixed methods approach is adopted. We conducted a large-scale survey involving 5,995 older adults (aged 55 and above) from all 12 divisions of Sarawak to gather quantitative data on demographics, health, socio-economic status, and access to services.

Qualitative data were collected through Focus Group Discussions with 30 relevant stakeholders in each division in Sarawak. The research underscores that the issues faced by older persons in Sarawak are complex and deeply contextual. Rural-urban differences—ranging from infrastructure and healthcare access to community support systems—require tailored, place based strategies.

Effective policies and ecosystems must be differentiated and responsive, built on granular, localised data to ensure that every older person, regardless of location, can age with dignity, security, and purpose.

Keywords: Ageing Population, Healthy Ageing, Demographic Analysis, Socio- Economic Challenges, Policy Development, Needs Assessment