WELFARE DEPARTMENT 'RAIDS' KL HOMELESS HOTSPOTS, RESCUES 545 INDIVIDUALS

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 16 (Bernama) -- The KL Strike Force operation, a joint initiative to address homelessness in the federal capital, has rescued 545 individuals, including 180 foreigners, aged between 30 and 60, from February until early this morning.

Federal Territories Social Welfare Department (JKM) director Che Samsuzuki Che Noh said the sixth operation this year targeted strategic locations in the city centre, including transportation hubs and commercial areas, identifying 16 homeless hotspots such as the UTC Pudu pedestrian bridge, Bukit Bintang, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Masjid Jamek and Jalan Imbi.

"This operation aims to foster a more conducive environment and safeguard the country's image in the eyes of the international community," he told reporters at the operation site early this morning.

bootstrap slideshow

He said that addressing homelessness requires continuous efforts, as some cases recur due to a lack of family support or other social challenges.

"In terms of food, clothing and basic needs, they are not neglected. But when it comes to safety, health and the country's image, these are aspects that must be addressed collectively," he said.

Che Samsuzuki added that every individual rescued will be screened by various agencies, including the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Federal Territories Department, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), Ministry of Health (MOH), and National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK).

bootstrap slideshow

In the sixth series of the operation, which took place from 10 pm yesterday to 8 am today, a total of 101 individuals were rescued, including 27 foreign nationals.

Among them were Kumar, 59, and Daud, 45, who became homeless due to unstable income and their inability to afford better housing, highlighting the harsh realities faced by the homeless in the city.

"Tonight, I'm grateful that JKM came to help… at least I no longer have to sleep on the sidewalk and have a chance to start a new job," said Kumar, who hails from Kuala Selangor and is currently unemployed.

Daud, from Perak, said his life changed after being abandoned by friends who came with him to the capital before the COVID-19 pandemic struck.

"I used to do contract work, then collected cans because I had no choice… I was once detained for sleeping in front of a shop, but when my urine test came back negative, I was released. I hope JKM's help this time can change my life," he said.

-- BERNAMA