KUALA LUMPUR: If not for the extra 7kg he had gained during his stay at Anjung Kelana, Hiew Jia Hua would have worn a baju Melayu to a Hari Raya Aidilfitri party at the transformation centre for the homeless in Taman Danau Desa here.But the 40-year-old still managed to look dapper in a black-collared tee and a pair of dark blue denims, both donated by well-wishers.
Rescued from the streets last November, Hiew was one of 15 residents feted at the event organised by the Federal Territories Ministry, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), National Welfare Foundation (YKN) and Federal Territory Foundation (YWP). Tables were set up within the compound with a live band playing in the background, while traditional favourites like lemang and rendang were served buffet-style.
There was also a karaoke session and residents received RM100 in duit raya from the guest of honour, Deputy Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias.
“I was a bit disappointed about not being able to dress for the occasion, but the merry atmosphere made up for it,” said Hiew.
Another resident, Chandran Ratnam, said he woke up at 6.30am on the day of the party because he was so excited.
“Gatherings like these are a change from our daily routine. They give us something to look forward to,” said Chandran, 73.
YKN counsellor Ahmad Zunaidi Abd Rahman said the event was part of the centre’s socialisation programme to help its clients reintegrate with society.
On what was next in terms of a progression plan, Jalaluddin said time and patience were needed when it came to rehabilitation.
“Our first priority is for the homeless to have a safe and comfortable shelter so that they are not exposed to the uncertainties of living out on the streets,” he said.
For those unable to be rehabilitated, DBKL is studying other options such as building centres in suburban areas. As a last resort, they will be referred to the Welfare Department.
Homeless centres such as Anjung Kelana and Anjung Singgah have achieved a 70% success rate, where residents have found employment or been reunited with their families since they opened in March 2021.