GEORGE TOWN, November 29 – The Penang state government is forming a special committee to address the welfare of homeless individuals, focusing on expanding guidelines for their management. State youth, sports, and health committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen highlighted the limitations of the Destitute Persons Act 1977.
Which restricts the welfare department from taking in homeless individuals with mental health issues, chronic health conditions, or substance addiction without collaboration with health authorities. Between 2022 and September 2024, Penang recorded 67 homeless individuals with mental health issues and 32 with drug addiction problems.
Gooi noted that those in need of medical care would be referred to state health services, including specialist clinics and Klinik Kesihatan. This initiative underscores the state’s commitment to a collaborative approach in addressing the challenges of homelessness and ensuring access to necessary healthcare and rehabilitation services.
