The government is reviewing the Destitute Persons Act 1977 to find a more comprehensive, multi-agency solution to persistent homelessness in the capital.
KUALA LUMPUR: The government is reviewing the Destitute Persons Act 1977 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.
She said homelessness in Kuala Lumpur remains a persistent issue involving repeat cases and new individuals.
“This requires a more holistic, multi-agency approach,” she told reporters after officiating at a key handover ceremony.
Dr Zaliha said rescue operations can involve as many as 400 homeless individuals in a single sweep.
These individuals come from various backgrounds including asylum seekers, those with mental illness and drug dependants.
Kuala Lumpur currently has three temporary shelters, including one in Taman Tunku.
These provide sleeping space and meals while allowing NGOs to channel aid in a controlled environment.
During a recent rescue operation, some homeless individuals were placed in Gemenceh, Negeri Sembilan, to undergo training.
Several successfully completed the programme and secured employment with the support of partner agencies.
Commenting separately on flash floods, Dr Zaliha said Kuala Lumpur is expected to experience increased rainfall intensity.
She said the normal rate is 80 millimetres per hour, but recent rainfall reached 116 millimetres per hour.
“We expect it may rise to 120 millimetres per hour, which could potentially trigger flooding,” she said.
On flood mitigation, she said the government has identified 15 flood hotspot areas in Kuala Lumpur.
Measures include 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.
