Khairin-Nisa (right) visiting the Rumah Pesona Johor site in Johor Baru.
THE development of Rumah Pesona Johor (RPJ) has reached 72% completion and is on track to be completed this year, says Johor executive councillor Khairin-Nisa Ismail.
The state women, family and community development committee chairman said the shelter in Johor Baru would provide a temporary refuge for those affected by domestic violence and divorce.
“It will be the first women’s shelter managed by the state government.
“We will welcome all women in need, regardless of race or religion.
“They can come with their children and stay for up to three weeks, depending on the severity of their situation.
“The shelter is designed to accommodate up to 30 individuals at a time, with all expenses covered by the government,” she said.
Khairin-Nisa added that victims requiring extended stays would have the option to relocate to units in people’s housing projects (PPR) rented by the Johor Islamic Religious Council (MAINJ).
“We are committed to making the shelter a secure and family- friendly environment.
“Priority will be given to those who have been evicted by their husbands or families.
“In addition to access to counselling and psychotherapy, residents will participate in skills training programmes, including the Women’s Income Generating Skills Project (Wings) and the Focused Entrepreneur Inspiration Course (Kiub),” she said.
The double-storey shelter will feature a surau, pantry, counselling rooms, dormitories, activity room, medical room and family room.
Separately, Khairin-Nisa revealed that the state government had allocated RM300,000 this year for the Women Cancer Reproductive Awareness (WCare) programme.
“Last year, we successfully reached out to 8,002 women and this year, we aim to connect with 6,000 women.
“Of the 8,002 women screened, approximately 250 were diagnosed with cancer, highlighting the importance of early detection programmes in Johor,” she said, adding that the initiative targeted the B40, M40 and Orang Asli communities.
