Hannah Yeoh seeks lasting solution to homelessness in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has been instructed to reassess data gathered on the city centre's homeless population through enforcement operations over the past three years, according to Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh. The review aims to pinpoint the most effective strategies to tackle homelessness in the city centre and gather insights from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) directly involved in the issue before presenting any proposed measures to the Cabinet.

Yeoh expressed her commitment to moving beyond merely enforcing laws against the homeless, emphasizing the need to refine the system so that those in need do not repeatedly return to the streets. During her visit to the KL Strike operation in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, alongside her role as the Segambut member of parliament, Yeoh underscored that homelessness could persist unless proper follow-up support is provided after individuals are evaluated and referred to the appropriate agencies.

She highlighted the challenges on the ground, including limited screening facilities, individuals lacking identification documents, mental health treatment needs, and the protection requirements of senior citizens and children.