Mapping study reveals 99 homeless individuals in Sarawak

LAWAS: As of Jan 22, a mapping study conducted by the Ministry of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development has identified a total of 99 homeless individuals in Sarawak.

The study, based on 32 targeted and integrated rescue operations and assessments, sheds light on the prevalence of homelessness in major cities.

Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah explained that major cities such as Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu and Miri have higher statistics “due to factors like unemployment and they have no house to live in.”

“For the record, the profiles of the recorded homeless individuals by the Sarawak Social Development Council (MPS) and the Sarawak Department of Social Welfare (JKM) during this period include 73 males and 26 females.

“Major cities such as Kuching have 32 individuals, followed by Sibu with 17, Bintulu with 13, and Miri with nine,” she disclosed during the Integrated Homeless Rescue Operation here recently.

Fatimah highlighted that homeless individuals with mental illnesses will be referred to the Sarawak Health Department (JKNS). However, she acknowledged the challenge in assisting those with mental illnesses due to a lack of trained staff.

To address this, the ministry is considering establishing a halfway house for individuals with mental illnesses, including those in recovery from drug and substance abuse.

Additionally, Fatimah announced plans for a Community Social Support Centre (CSSC) to be built in Banting, Lingga, modelled after the Homeless Transit Centre (TTG). This facility aims to provide temporary transit services for the homeless.

During the Integrated Homeless Rescue Operation, which commenced at 9pm, 12 individuals were identified as homeless, comprising eight citizens and four non-citizens.