By: Aida Aziz
IPOH: Members of the public are urging authorities to conduct more frequent integrated operations to address homelessness in the city.
A recent operation conducted by the Majlis Bandaraya Ipoh (MBI) together with the Jabatan Kebajikan Masyarakat (JKM) and the Agensi Antidadah Kebangsaan (AADK) has sparked widespread public discussion.
While many praised the effort, others criticised certain agencies for only acting when the issue goes viral on social media.
This follows a widely circulated video by a foreign tourist showing conditions at several walkways and building corridors in central Ipoh, where homeless individuals were seen occupying the areas.
Residents claimed that certain hotspots in the city centre have effectively turned into “homeless villages”, worsened by tents set up along walkways and even clothes being hung out to dry nearby.
“One of the reasons the area has become a hotspot is that some NGOs distribute food aid there.
“Perhaps out of concern for being late and wanting to secure a spot, many choose to wait and sleep there. That is just my opinion,” said Abdul Latif Mokhtar.
At the same time, many also claimed that homeless individuals tend to relocate to other areas following such integrated operations.
They alleged that many eventually return to the same locations shortly after, causing the issue to recur without a lasting solution.
“No wonder many have moved to the food court at Taman Kanak-Kanak, and some to the main market,” said one resident.
“As long as free food aid continues to be distributed, they will keep gathering in those areas.
“I have seen several individuals gathering near the Parkson shopping complex. Some arrive on motorcycles and wait along the walkways for food donations.
“Once they receive free meals, they return to their homes. Many appear physically healthy. Ipoh residents should stop giving food directly; if they want to help, offer them jobs instead. Give a fishing rod, not fish,” said Omar Othman.
In light of this, there are growing calls for the state government to take more decisive action to ensure the city’s image is not affected, especially as the issue is visible in the heart of the city, resembling a “homeless village”.
Last February, Perak Women, Family, Social Welfare, Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Committee chairman Salbiah Mohamed said plans are underway to establish a dedicated transit centre for the homeless to better safeguard their welfare.
She added that efforts will also focus on improving the coordination of food distribution for the homeless around the city.
