By Aida Aziz
IPOH: A special zone in Ipoh town will be established as a one-stop centre for all relevant stakeholders to deliver assistance and contributions to the homeless.
The Chairperson of the State Committee for Women’s Development, Family, Social Welfare, and Entrepreneurial Cooperative Development, Datuk Salbiah Mohamed, said the zone would also help monitor and control the homeless population to prevent any unwanted incidents.
“As a result of continuous engagement sessions between my portfolio and the Mayor, the Ipoh City Council (MBI) has agreed to provide a special zone in Ipoh town.
“It will be designated for all NGOs and relevant parties to deliver any form of contributions and aid to the homeless,” she said.
She added that in Perak, the National Welfare Foundation (YKN) has established Anjung Singgah Perak at No. 12, Jalan Medan Istana 1, Bandar Ipoh Raya, Ipoh.
It serves as a reference and intervention centre for the homeless and provides free facilities.
These include temporary accommodation, counselling services (individual or group), meals, and welfare assistance needed by the homeless, in collaboration with government agencies.
“With this placement, the homeless are given an opportunity to improve their lives, develop skills, and contribute back to society,” she said.
She further explained that the Social Welfare Department (JKM) is responsible for implementing the Taking of Destitute Persons measures under the Destitute Persons Act 1977 (Act 183).
The Act defines begging as any behaviour considered likely to induce the giving of alms, with or without acts such as feigning singing, playing, performing, offering something for sale, or similar conduct.
