Destitute Persons Act to be amended to tackle homelessness, says Nancy

The Star

5 days ago

KUALA LUMPUR: The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry plans to amend the Destitute Persons Act 1977, following a comprehensive review aimed at addressing homelessness and urban poverty more effectively.
Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri stated that a review of the Destitute Persons Act 1977 (Act 183) has been completed, and key findings are being studied as the basis for new legislation.
"We are identifying provisions in the current Act that are outdated and require a more practical and suitable approach to managing homelessness and vagrancy, especially in the context of urban poverty," she told Dewan Rakyat on Thursday (July 23).
In response to a question from Datuk Mohd Isam Mohd Isa (BN–Tampin) on government efforts to address homelessness, Nancy said a new legal framework is proposed to define more clearly the responsibilities of various government agencies, including at the federal, state, and local authority levels, and promote a more integrated response to homelessness and begging.
The Ministry is now working towards drafting a specific Bill on vagrancy and homelessness to ensure interventions are more targeted and effective.
"This includes rehabilitation and enforcement, so that efforts to help the homeless are well-structured and goal-oriented—ultimately enabling them to regain independence and live with dignity," she said.
As of May this year, 987 homeless individuals have been assisted through enforcement and outreach operations coordinated by the Social Welfare Department.
These efforts, she said, were carried out both regularly and on an ad hoc basis, with support from agencies including the Health Ministry, Immigration Department, National Anti-Drugs Agency, and local councils.
"From January to May 2025, a total of 987 homeless individuals were helped through temporary placements, medical treatment, or social interventions, depending on their specific circumstances," she said.
Under Section 3(1) of the Destitute Persons Act 1977, welfare officers are empowered to take destitute persons into custody within 24 hours and present them before a Magistrate for further action.
She said enforcement is carried out responsibly, with attention paid to each individual's needs and well-being.
Nancy also highlighted that many of those housed in Desa Bina Diri rehabilitation centres are not typical vagrants or beggars, but individuals with underlying mental health conditions.
"Some have severe behavioural issues, and while they should ideally be under the care of the Health Ministry, they often return to our centres after short-term treatment. For instance, there are currently 82 people in the Cheras facility, and more than 300 in other locations," she said.
She acknowledged the strain this puts on social services, but said the Ministry continues to provide care and shelter, including for individuals who require more secure, specialised environments.
"For those deemed fit to work, we help them find employment. The situation is constantly evolving, but our goal remains the same: to ensure their welfare and help them rebuild their lives," she added.