More than 200 seniors and visitors came together at Sunway Sanctuary’s inaugural Carnival of Health, Wellness and Fun on Saturday to mark the International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) 2025, celebrating the theme of active and healthy ageing.
Organised by Malaysia’s premier senior living residence, the event featured over 20 booths offering interactive games, wellness screenings, fitness sessions, and health talks by professionals from the Sunway Healthcare Group.
Activities ranged from aqua aerobics and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) consultations to balance and eye tests, alongside artisanal stalls and lifestyle services including AI-assisted wellness diagnostics and mobile manicures.
Speaking at the event, Vivien Lim, director of sales and marketing at Sunway Sanctuary, said the initiative aimed to recognise the valuable role seniors play in society.
“This initiative is part of Sunway Sanctuary’s aim to celebrate and honour our seniors who have shared their knowledge, aspirations and experiences with us throughout their lives, contributing to society and committed to keeping an active lifestyle,” she said.
Vivien added that ageing should be viewed as a positive force rather than a limitation.
“Aging is not a process of decline, but rather a powerful agent of change, shaping and driving action locally and globally, ensuring their rights and voices are heard, promoting dignity and dismantling stigmas,” she said.
The celebration began with an upbeat flash mob performance set to ‘Macarena’ and ‘YMCA,’ capturing the carnival’s message of vibrancy and inclusivity.
The event underscored Malaysia’s growing emphasis on active ageing — a key component in the region’s public health strategy as ASEAN nations adapt to rapidly ageing populations. By encouraging seniors to embrace fitness, lifelong learning, and social engagement, initiatives like Sunway Sanctuary’s carnival reflect a broader shift toward community-based eldercare models seen across East and Southeast Asia.
Established under Sunway Healthcare Group, Sunway Sanctuary is part of an expanding ecosystem of private healthcare and wellness services aimed at redefining senior living through holistic care and community integration.
The Group, which includes major hospitals and specialist centres across Malaysia, continues to strengthen its regional presence with partnerships in medical education and research.
As Malaysia’s ageing population grows (projected to reach 15 per cent of the total population by 2040), events such as these highlight the need for sustainable models of wellness, inclusion, and dignity for older adults. 