A Way For The Homeless

Not all homeless are helpless. In this article, we take a look into how a Malaysian initiative seeks to reintegrate the homeless into society through enabling them. Sometimes all they need is the right type of support to pull through difficult times. One step at a time, they can work their way out of the rut and lead a safer, healthier life for themselves and their families.

- Xin Yi Yeoh

EVENINGS IN KUALA LUMPUR ARE LIKE THE CHANGING SCENES IN A PLAY FOR THE HOMELESS.

The set is constantly modified and a new chapter of a story continues, perhaps with the introduction of new characters. Wanderers of the day pick their dwelling spot for the night – bus stops, five foot pathways, at a park bench. Lone rangers and families alike, claiming their space after having to share it with everyone else during daylight.

Based on a research conducted by Inclue, a platform established under the Finance Ministry’s 2016 Volunteering for International Professionals (VIP) programme, 20% of the homeless in Kuala Lumpur end up on the streets due to fall outs with their families, youth rebellion and ex-convicts who could never return home. Cheryl Ng, a Project Manager of VIP and who manages the Inclue through the Impact Hub, shares that the elder street dwellers form part of this 20%, who find life on the street better than being trapped in an unhappy home, where they were mistreated and unaccepted by their families. “They have confided that there is more sense of dignity in living on their own than to be poorly treated by their own families, even if it means having to sleep on the streets”.

Another 40% have been identified as those who actually choose to live on the street due to the freedom and carefree life they can lead. They take some odd jobs occasionally, get food and help from generous people, and live a simple, modern, nomadic life. Within this group, 20% are the problem stricken ones with drug abuse, health or mental issues.