As Malaysia approaches “aging country” status by 2030, the demand for elder care services is rapidly increasing. One of the frontrunners in this emerging market is ReU Living, an innovative initiative that merges hospitality and healthcare.
ReU Living is a joint venture between Tan & Tan Developments Berhad, a subsidiary of IGB Berhad, and Meaningfull Life Sdn Bhd, combining the expertise of two award-winning companies to address a critical gap in Malaysia's senior care services. In this sourcingcares’ interview with Estee Tan, COO of ReU Living, at the Asia Pacific Care Industry Forum (ACIF) of Cares Expo Taipei 2024, we explore the vision, services, and distinctive approach of ReU Living as it caters to the evolving needs of elder care in Malaysia.
ReU Living’s journey began with a personal realization among its founders and stakeholders. The management team observed that many of their own family members, colleagues, and even themselves, were confronting the challenges of aging. During a trip to China in 2019, they visited several retirement centers with the initial intention of developing a full-fledged retirement village within one of their Malaysian townships. However, cultural and social insights from the trip led to a recalibration of their vision. “We realized that most Malaysians are not yet ready to embrace the idea of moving into retirement villages,” Tan shared. Their research showed that about 77% of Malaysians prefer aging at home, reflecting the family-oriented and multicultural societal norms.
Services for community-style senior living
Despite this preference for aging at home, ReU Living identified a growing need for specialized care solutions, particularly for seniors left alone due to their children living abroad, or for those facing increasing health concerns.
ReU Living’s services are based on a hybrid model that combines elements of senior living and hospitality. Located within one of the group’s hotel-apartment complexes, it offers more than just a place to live—it provides a community. “We renovated one of our existing hotel apartments to be senior-friendly,” says Tan. The units are designed to offer the comforts of home, featuring a living area, kitchenette, and spacious bedrooms. The primary difference lies in the integrated support systems, including assisted living care for seniors who cannot live independently, as well as short-term stays for post-surgery rehabilitation or temporary care when family members are away.
In addition to advanced treatments, ReU Living collaborates with local hospitals to offer traditional Chinese medicine when needed. If patients require specialized care—such as physical therapy, nutritional guidance, psychological support, or other therapeutic interventions—these services are coordinated based on the recommendations of doctors.
Socialization and active ageing
ReU Living also provides a range of tailored services, including meals, housekeeping, laundry, and most importantly, 24-hour care managed by professional nursing staff. This ensures seniors receive not only physical assistance but also emotional and social support in a holistic environment. Another key offering is daycare services, allowing families to drop off their elderly loved ones for a few hours or even days, while they attend to personal or work commitments.
Unlike many elder care facilities where seniors may be isolated, ReU Living organizes daily activities to encourage socialization and active aging. The property features a clubhouse that serves as a communal hub, offering activities such as board games, music, and light exercises to foster interaction among residents.
“This community-centered approach stands in stark contrast to other facilities where seniors may feel isolated or neglected,” Tan emphasized. “It appeals to families who want to ensure their loved ones are not only cared for but also leading fulfilling lives in their later years.”
Elder care across different cultures
What sets ReU Living apart from international elder care operators entering the Malaysian market is its deep understanding of local cultural nuances. Malaysia’s diverse population, which includes Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities, has distinct preferences and expectations for elder care. ReU Living has carefully incorporated these cultural differences into its operations, including in daily meals and social activities.
As Malaysia's elderly population grows, the government has begun recognizing the importance of developing elder care infrastructure. Although elder care is still in its early stages, ReU Living believes the sector will continue to expand, with more developers incorporating senior-friendly facilities into their projects. The demand for high-quality care, particularly in urban areas, is only expected to rise.
ReU Living’s vision of blending hospitality with healthcare in elder care is a significant step toward transforming Malaysia’s approach to aging. By offering personalized care that respects cultural sensitivities and fosters community engagement, they are setting a new standard for senior living in the region.
Notes: For more details about ACIF and Cares Expo Taipei, please check the website or contact Juihui Lin via lin@ankemedia.com for more info.
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