FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 4 JULY 2014, PETALING JAYA *CANOPI calls for a compassionate and consultative approach towards beggars and vagrants* The Christian Advocacy Network on Poverty Issues (CANOPI) is shocked by the sudden high-handedness of the Minister of Federal Territories Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor in his announcements to pass regulations and by-laws to punish beggars and alms-givers, ban the operation of soup kitchens and order the detention of beggars and the homeless against their will. CANOPI has noted an escalation of hostility towards beggars and the homeless ever since the announcement made by Datuk Seri Rohani Abdul Karim, the Minister of Women, Family and Community Development to achieve zero homelessness using force, as reported on June 12th 2014 (NST). As our members and associates have worked constructively with the Welfare Department to assist in other forms of poverty, we can only conclude that such hostility stems from serious knowledge gaps on the part of the government on the issue. As news continues to unfold on the intentions of both Ministries, we recognise the concern of the Minister of Federal Territories in projecting an image of economic wealth and stability for the capital city. However, such oppressive measures of rounding up, harassing and penalising beggars and vagrants will only serve to further jeapordise the image of a caring, moderate and compassionate government. Malaysia must move away from treating beggars and vagrants as “sampah masyarakat” – to be swept away. Recent research has shown that those who are homeless are plagued with deeper socio-economic problems, coupled with gaps in government services at the local level. The approach of on-ground service centres including soup kitchens is one of dignity and respect – going to where they are to build empowering relationships. These services emphasise building social connections, providing health services and legal counsel, giving dignity and hope, and empowerment. CANOPI calls for: - Accountability on the part of the Government in their efforts to assist those trapped in poverty. Our associate service organisations have been working with people facing homelessness issues for decades, many of which have been reintegrated successfully into society after years of empowerment through relationship. We humbly ask the Government to consult us in this matter for mutual understanding on the type of work required for our clients. - Transparency on the detention processes and environment of institutions such as Desa Bina Diri, so that related NGOs can provide feedback and concrete steps for the benefit of the clients. CANOPI reiterates that banning soup kitchens are more than taking away food and drink – it is depriving such people of the social networks, relationships, support and counselling required for empowerment. We urgently appeal to the Minister of Federal Territories to set aside his intentions to legislate oppressive regulations and by-laws, and instead, open up his doors for constructive consultation with civil society for a humane and compassionate approach. ### end ### Click for full official media report.
Posted on: Fri, 04 Jul 2014 04:29:52 +0000
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