By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 11: The Sarawak government today officially launched Tempat Transit Gelandangan (TTG), or Transit Place for the Homeless, at Jalan P. Ramlee in Kuching, providing not only a safe overnight refuge, but also comprehensive support services to help the homeless rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.
The centre, operated by Hidayah Centre Foundation as the anchor non-governmental organisation (NGO), provides temporary accommodation, meals, bathing facilities and health screenings to homeless individuals.
During the day, residents will either carry on with their own activities or participate in structured interventions such as counselling, skills training and job-matching.
Sarawak Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, who officiated the launch, said the establishment of TTG is supported by data collected through statewide operations and profiling exercises conducted by the Welfare Department (JKM).
“Based on data from the Sarawak Welfare Department, there was a 13.68 per cent increase in homelessness cases statewide—from 117 cases in 2023 to 133 cases in 2024. Sibu recorded the highest number of cases at 48, followed by Kuching with 19.
“In response to this growing issue, we established the TTG to provide social support, including health screenings, counselling and referrals to the relevant agencies,” she said. An audio recording of her doorstep interview was made available to the press afterwards.
The TTG model also accounts for complex cases such as individuals with mental illnesses, many of whom face relapse and re-discharge after hospitalisation.
Fatimah highlighted that Mental Health Association Sarawak (MHAS) is now managing a government-owned bungalow that can house up to 15 individuals with psychiatric conditions, with professional psychiatric care provided on-site.
“At least now we know we have a place to send them after discharge, instead of seeing them return to the streets. It’s a huge relief,” she said, while noting that the facility currently has six beds and will require more support to reach its full capacity.
While Kuching’s TTG is now operational, Fatimah confirmed that similar facilities in Bintulu and Miri will be set up soon.
The State government, through the 2025 Budget, has allocated RM1.8 million for the operation of four TTGs across Sarawak—namely in Sibu, Kuching, Bintulu and Miri.
Looking ahead, Fatimah said the long-term vision for TTG includes public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma, job creation, community-based housing solutions and further inter-agency collaboration.
“Our hope is that those who come through TTG will eventually move on, live independently and regain their dignity,” she emphasised.
She also welcomed public support, noting that even small donations like t-shirts, toiletries or cup noodles can make a meaningful difference to the lives of the centre’s residents. – DayakDaily
