By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, July 4: The transit centres for individuals experiencing homelessness and mental health conditions in Bintulu and Miri are on schedule to commence operations between September and October this year.
Minister for Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah elaborated that the Bintulu and Miri transit centres, which are now in the procurement phase under the Public Works Department (JKR), aim to provide shelter, treatment, and reintegration support.
Fatimah added that the facilities are part of the Sarawak government’s efforts to address the growing link between mental health issues and homelessness, while easing the burden on families caring for affected individuals.
“Mental health falls under the Ministry of Health, while welfare-related matters are under my ministry. This is why close cooperation between agencies and ministries is crucial in addressing the issue comprehensively,” she said when officiating the 7th Sarawak Mental Health Conference, where she represented Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at a hotel in Kuching today.
According to Fatimah, the transit centres will provide a safe and clean environment where individuals undergoing treatment can receive care, counselling, skills training, and support to regain confidence before returning to society and employment.
She noted that in Kuching, enforcement officers frequently encounter the same individuals struggling with both mental illness and homelessness, underscoring the urgent need for a more sustainable and effective intervention system.
“There are instances where individuals display unruly behaviour, and in such cases, they are often referred to Sentosa Hospital for treatment,” she said.
Fatimah acknowledged that mental illness and homelessness are closely related, with factors such as unemployment, family problems, and social stigma contributing to the issue.
She also highlighted that individuals with mental health conditions in rural areas are sometimes cared for by family members. In other instances, these individuals are isolated or confined due to a lack of access to proper treatment and support.
Currently, Sarawak’s transit facilities for homeless individuals house 14 men and two women in Kuching, while the centre in Sibu accommodates 12 men and six women.
Fatimah stressed that society must adopt a collective approach to mental health by strengthening support systems in homes, schools, higher education institutions, and workplaces, while encouraging affected individuals to seek professional help.
“We must reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and work together to ensure those affected receive treatment, financial assistance, and the opportunity to return to society with dignity,” she added.
Also in attendance were Sarawak Health deputy director Dr Azlee Ayub, representing Sarawak Health director Dr Veronica Lugah, and Dr Rosliwati Md Yusoff, the organising chairperson of the 7th Sarawak Mental Health Conference. — DayakDaily
