Govt Reviewing Destitute Persons Act To Tackle Homelessness In KL

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 11 (Bernama) -- The government is reviewing the Destitute Persons Act 1977 (Act 183) to find a more comprehensive solution to homelessness in the capital.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said the review is being undertaken by relevant agencies, including the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM).

She said homelessness in Kuala Lumpur remains a persistent issue involving repeat cases and new individuals, requiring a more holistic, multi-agency approach.

“JKM (Social Welfare Department) and KPWKM are looking into the Act being used, for example, the Destitute Persons Act, and I understand it is being examined in greater detail to determine the appropriate provisions and which agency should be responsible for it.

“So in rescue operations we usually involve all relevant parties, including JKM, the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK), National Security Council (MKN), Home Ministry (KDN) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM),” she told reporters after officiating at the Residensi Akasia Jubilee key handover ceremony here today.

Dr Zaliha said as many as 400 homeless individuals may be encountered in a single operation, comprising people from various backgrounds including asylum seekers, those with mental illness and drug dependants.

She said Kuala Lumpur currently has three temporary shelters, including one in Taman Tunku, which provide sleeping space and meals, while allowing non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to channel aid in a controlled environment to prevent hygiene issues.

During a rescue operation held in conjunction with Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship recently, some homeless individuals were placed in Gemenceh, Negeri Sembilan, to undergo training, and several successfully completed the programme and secured employment with the support of partner agencies.

Commenting on flash flood issues in the capital, Dr Zaliha said Kuala Lumpur is expected to experience increased rainfall intensity at several locations of up to 120 millimetres per hour (mm/h).

“The normal rate is 80 mm/h, but recently rainfall reached 116 mm/h, and we expect it may rise to 120 mm/h, which could potentially trigger flooding,” she said.

On short- and long-term measures following recent flash floods, Dr Zaliha said the government has undertaken early preparations, including identifying 15 flood hotspot areas in Kuala Lumpur.

“We have implemented several measures, for example, installing alert sirens that activate when water levels reach a certain point. We will issue early warnings to residents so they can take appropriate action,” she said.

-- BERNAMA