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Singapore mission chief calls for public-private support for ageing population in Asia-Pacific
An eight-decade-old Singapore mission urged public-private cooperation to address ageing in Asia-Pacific. CEO S Devendran called for coordinated action across government, social service agencies, healthcare providers, community organisations and private sector partners, framing ageing as a lifelong societal responsibility.
Why It Matters
The appeal highlights a cross-sector approach to elder care in a region facing rapid ageing, signaling potential changes in policy delivery and collaboration.
Timeline
4 Events
Call for public-private support for ageing population in Asia-Pacific
May 2, 2026
Devendran told PTI on May 2, 2026: "We must reframe ageing as a lifelong societal commitment, where dignity is defined by choice, and every individual is empowered to shape how they live their later years." He added, "We need to go beyond giving. We need hands-on service and shared responsibility in caring for our elders. This includes strengthening state-supported institutions so elderly citizens can live with comfort, dignity, and respect in every aspect of daily life."
SNM Singapore joins Ageing Asia Alliance
April 2026
Sree Narayana Mission Singapore joined the Singapore-based Ageing Asia Alliance, which facilitates dialogue on elderly care policy, services, and related issues.
Two nursing homes and five elderly care centres opened with government support
April 2026
The Singapore government has supported the Sree Narayana Mission as part of its social service programmes, enabling the opening of two nursing homes and five elderly care centres that are operational as of April 2026.
Award: Ageing Asia Global Ageing Trailblazer 2026
April 2026
S Devendran was honoured with the 'Ageing Asia Global Ageing Trailblazer 2026 Award' at the 14th Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards held in Singapore.