Welcoming Remarks, by Tan Sri Hasmy Agam, Chairman of the Commission 3. The following points were stressed in his remarks:a. Supporting the ageing population is becoming a rising problem for developing countries. The burden on children may become intolerable without considerable support and expanded safety nets by the government and other stakeholders. b. Support for caregivers whether in the government, private, communities or home setting environments must be provided to ensure older persons’ rights are protected and respected. c. The need to create of an age-friendly environment includes proper healthcare system, housing, transport, social security and financial support for the older persons which could support the well-being of older persons and indirectly empower them to live an active and productive life. d. Older persons are often categorised as senile, rigid and old fashioned. This process of systematic stereotyping and discrimination against people because they are old, similar to those experienced in relation to racism and sexism. Therefore, older persons may be exposed to physical and mentally abuse. Due to this, it is also pertinent to consider whether there should be laws to protect older persons. e. The international efforts that are currently taking place to protect and promote the rights of older persons were also highlighted. Proposals were made on how to fill gaps in the international system including drafting of a new Convention on the rights of older persons. f. 52 Moving forward to empowering the rights of older persons will require political commitment, continuous advocacy and strong partnership amongst all stakeholders. REPORT ON CARE SERVICES FOR OLDER PERSONS AND SUPPORT FOR CAREGIVERS