Homelessness in Kuala Lumpur: What Do They Really Need?

Abstract:

The main causes of homelessness are lack of affordable housing, income, family breakdown, drug addictions, mental illness and many more. The objective of this study is to investigate the utmost needs of the homeless in Medan Tuanku, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.  It was found that the majority of homeless adults less than 70 years old are in dire need of accommodation. There were 78% of the respondents below 70 years old strongly need jobs for their living, while only 6.15% wanted to run micro-business (street traders) if they are being given the opportunity. There were 45% of the homeless respondents who wanted to be with their families, which 48% of them are below 50 years old.  The older age of the respondents indicates their lack of intention to be with their family, having shelter and jobs.