Seniors choosing residential communities offering resort-like amenities surge after the Covid pandemic
In Malaysia, the demand for senior living facilities that cater to the middle- and upper-middle-income group is on the rise. Two popular options are the Sunway Sanctuary and the Suka Senior Resort, both located in or near Petaling Jaya.
Sunway Sanctuary, a premium senior living development by Sunway Healthcare Group, offers integrated lifestyle-focused eldercare solutions with upscale residential units. The first phase has 235 units, and occupancy is growing, signaling a rising demand for high-quality accommodations catering to seniors seeking supportive, lifestyle-oriented housing.
Suka Senior Resort, formerly the Shah Village Hotel, has been in operation since March this year, with over 5,600 sq m of built-up space and 100 rooms. Monthly fees start at around RM3,500 inclusive of meals, laundry, and access to clubhouse activities, making it an affordable option for middle- to upper-middle-income seniors.
Amenities and services at Suka Senior Resort include daily group exercise activities like stretching, yoga, qi gong, and swimming, with optional participation to promote wellness and social interaction. The halal-certified kitchen serves a mix of Malaysian and Western cuisine, including vegetarian options, to address seniors’ nutritional needs, especially protein and iron intake. The community environment aims to reduce loneliness and encourage independence and physical activity, especially important post-COVID.
These facilities reflect a growing trend in Malaysia for senior living options emphasizing independence, community, wellness, and comfort in a resort-like or premium environment. Market demand is influenced by demographic shifts toward an aged population, with increased offerings from both private developers and supportive government policies to address aging and long-term care needs.
Key Features & Amenities of the Facilities
| Facility Name | Location | Target Income Group | Key Features & Amenities | Approximate Cost | |--------------------|----------------|---------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------| | Sunway Sanctuary | Petaling Jaya | Upper-middle to premium | Integrated senior living with lifestyle and healthcare | Not specified, premium | | Suka Senior Resort | Petaling Jaya | Middle- to upper-middle | Resort-style living, group exercises, Halal vegetarian meals, clubhouse access | From RM3,500/month inclusive |
These centers provide a blend of independence, active lifestyles, social engagement, and supportive services suited to middle- and upper-middle-income seniors in Malaysia.
Resident Perspectives
Samantha, a 67-year-old widow, moved into Sukha Senior Resort after feeling isolated and depressed following two years of loneliness. She now enjoys painting at the resort and interacting with people her age. Dason Nair, head of Sukha's kitchen, mentioned that residents are served a mix of Malaysian and Western-style food daily. Samantha described Sukha Senior Resort as peaceful and spacious.
Conclusion
As Malaysia moves towards becoming an aged nation by 2040, with more than 17% of its population aged 60 and above, senior living facilities like Sunway Sanctuary and Suka Senior Resort are becoming increasingly important. These facilities provide a welcoming, supportive environment for seniors to live independently, engage in social activities, and maintain their health and well-being.
- Despite being a relatively new senior living option, Suka Senior Resort, previously the Shah Village Hotel, is already attracting a growing number of residents due to its resort-style living, daily group exercises, and halal-certified meals catering to various dietary needs.
- In the face of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, senior living facilities like Sunway Sanctuary and Suka Senior Resort are adapting to prioritize health and wellness, offering integrated healthcare solutions and promoting physical activity to support residents' overall wellbeing and combat feelings of loneliness.
- As Malaysia's aging population continues to grow, with 17% of the population expected to be aged 60 and above by 2040, there is a rising need for senior living facilities that cater to various income levels, providing independent living, social engagement, and supportive services that promote a healthier, more enjoyable lifestyle for seniors.
