KWAP explores healthcare and silver economy investments
The retirement fund says investments addressing an ageing population must meet its commercial and risk-return requirements.
Kumpulan Wang Persaraan (Diperbadankan) (KWAP) is exploring investments through Dana Pemacu, with healthcare and the silver economy among its target sectors, chief executive officer Datuk Jay Khairil Jeremy Abdullah said.
Speaking at the National Conference on Ageing (NCA) 2026 in Kuala Lumpur on Oct 19, he said Malaysia needed investment in healthcare, elderly care and technology to help older people remain independent. Population ageing would bring additional economic needs, requiring investment approaches that combine social benefits with sustainable returns, he said.
Jay Khairil said a social purpose did not exempt an investment from commercial scrutiny or KWAP’s risk-return requirements. Institutional investors could help develop infrastructure, services and technology for older people while pursuing long-term value, he added.
Dana Pemacu supports the Government-Linked Enterprises Activation and Reform Programme (GEAR-uP) under the Ekonomi Madani framework. Its target areas include products and services for older people.
Separately, Jay Khairil said KWAP was improving its MyPesara platforms and arranging community-based assistance for retirees. He stressed the need to accommodate both those comfortable using digital services and those who preferred direct contact.
He also pointed to KWAP’s work with the Malaysian Research Institute on Ageing (MyAgeing) at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). The collaboration started in 2017 and resulted in the Retirement Strategic Agenda in 2024.
