KUALA LUMPUR – Underneath the glittering skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur, a growing number of marginalised people are making the streets of Brickfields their home.
Speaking with Scoop, a man who wants to be known as Guna, who found himself homeless due to health issues and mounting debt, shared his painful journey.
“Losing my job in 2008 and getting addicted to alcohol shattered my life. I used to work at a reputable firm, and I was ‘backstabbed’ at work, which led to me being addicted to alcohol.
“I like loitering around Brickfields as it’s cheaper for me to indulge my habit compared to other parts of KL. Alcohol has been the remedy to my problems.
“I tried my best to turn my life around but found it tough. I’m trying to apply for my identification card which I lost, and I need support to regain my self-confidence and secure employment that can help me rebuild my life. I hope someone gives me a chance to work,” he said.
Meanwhile, 32-year-old Ganapathy faced rejection from his family after coming out of the closet and found himself living on the streets of Brickfields.
“Without emotional or financial support, I was chased out by my family, and I ended up on the streets. To make ends meet, I became a sex worker for a brief period – however, I decided to not pawn my dignity anymore.
“I yearn for acceptance as a gay individual and a job that can give me stability.”
As for 50-year-old Hassan, he has been homeless in Brickfields for the past 20 years, and slept near schools in the area.
“I beg for food, and I eat and sleep near the pavements at the girls school or sometimes at La Salle school. I used to live at Pantai Dalam, and I got addicted to drugs at a very young age.”
In response to homelessness, Samaritan Hope Home led by Sister Fatima Emmanuel, has been providing daily meals, essential supplies, and shelter to the homeless community in Brickfields, and Kuala Lumpur at large.
“We have been running this centre since 2018, and so far, we have expanded our service in other parts of Kuala Lumpur. We have homeless people walking from Brickfields to our centre in Pudu to receive food and medication.
“At our centre, homeless people get breakfast and lunch from Monday to Saturday. They can freshen up, have a shower, and wash their clothes there.”
She added that the homeless should not be ostracised, and instead be treated with respect like any other human beings.
“I genuinely believe in the strength and potential in every person, regardless of their circumstances, and they should not be abandoned at any cost.
“With compassionate support, we can help them regain stability and reintegrate into society as productive individuals,” said the 59-year-old.
It is estimated that there are currently 1,500 to 2,000 homeless individuals in Kuala Lumpur. – September 1, 2023