I’ve just returned from Bali after attending the Asia Pacific Regional Conference titled “Reframing Ageing,” which HelpAge International had the privilege of co-hosting alongside BAPPENAS and UNFPA.
The event brought together over 400 participants from governments, multilateral agencies, civil society organisations, the private sector, and academia, representing 38 countries. We engaged in thoughtful discussions on the urgent and evolving challenges of population ageing in Asia, addressing themes from active ageing to the intersections of climate change and technology.
This gathering was far more than just a conference – it was a platform for diverse voices and perspectives. From the engaging seminars and workshops to the cultural exhibitions and performances, the energy and commitment from every attendee was palpable. It was an honour to participate, speak, and most importantly, to listen. I was especially moved by the exchange between older and younger participants, offering a clear reminder of the importance of intergenerational dialogue.
The concept of “Past, Present, and Future” was a recurring theme at the conference, emphasising how the younger generation learns from the past through the experiences of older generations, while both generations collaborate to address the present and shape the future together. This powerful idea highlighted the importance of intergenerational cooperation in building a society for all ages, where the wisdom of the past and the energy of the present come together to create a more inclusive and forward-looking future.
One of the highlights for me was the discussion around the intersectionality of population ageing with other global challenges, particularly climate change and technological advancement. This is an area gaining much-needed attention. We also heard from governments, particularly the Republic of Indonesia, on how they are integrating the rights and needs of older people into local governance and policy – a crucial step forward.
Young entrepreneurs from the private sector also brought innovative solutions, many born out of personal experiences with ageing in their own families and communities. A Thai entrepreneur shared how they began teaching older people to use technology during COVID-19 to help combat isolation. These training sessions have continued, and now many older people are leveraging technology to market their products and earn a sustainable livelihood. It was a reminder of how creativity, driven by compassion and personal connection, can help solve some of the world’s most pressing issues.
I was also deeply impressed by the contributions from participants in the Pacific Islands, where climate change’s impact on older populations is a growing concern. During a powerful session on climate change mitigation, delegates underscored the urgent need for action. They stressed that time is running out, with their land literally sinking and older people bearing the brunt of the crisis.
It’s difficult to convey in words the collective energy, passion, and commitment we shared during this conference. I left Bali feeling inspired and more determined than ever to continue advocating for bold, collaborative solutions to the challenges of population ageing. Seeing older men and women perform in cultural events – some as old as 83 – was a testament to the vibrancy and strength of older generations in the region.
The conference may be over, but the journey to address the needs and rights of older people in Asia-Pacific continues. Together, we will keep reframing the narrative around ageing and creating inclusive, resilient societies for all generations.