ISU GELANDANGAN DI MALAYSIA: CABARAN DAN SYOR PENAMBAHBAIKAN

Abstract

Homelessness is a pervasive issue that intertwines with many critical sectors of a country, spanning healthcare, economy, social welfare, education to housing, to name a few. Undeniably, this intricate social phenomenon thwarts straightforward definitions and simple solutions as it is increasingly associated with women who struggle with domestic violence, illiterate runaway adolescents who succumb to substance abuse, the unemployed, and those who are suffering from chronic physical and mental illnesses. Nevertheless, this social phenomenon has received scant study in Malaysia. Therefore, the author seeks to examine some of the shortcomings of the current homelessness policies and legislation in Malaysia and propose recommendations that target the broader social context within which homelessness occurs in Malaysia. These recommendations consider, amongst others, the potential of technology and participation-based accommodation schemes, the role of local actors and community-assisted initiatives, the need for legislative reforms and alternative social assistance incentives, as well as the establishment of an inter-agency council and a single unified homelessness database.