Fatimah signing a plaque to open the Community Social Support Centre Sibu (right), which used to be the Sri Rajang Resthouse.
VICTIMS of domestic violence can seek temporary refuge at the newly established Community Social Support Centre (CSSC) in Sibu, Sarawak.
The centre, located on Jalan Awang Ramli Amit, used to be the Sri Rajang Resthouse.
“This is not a permanent shelter but a temporary place where individuals can stay while awaiting court orders or (making) other necessary arrangements.
“It provides a safe option for those who may face danger if they return home,” said Sarawak Women, Children and Commu-nity Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah during the opening ceremony.
The CSSC used to be the Head of State rest house.
The centre also has three activity rooms and two meeting rooms which can be used for free by community-based organisations, government departments and agencies, as well as health support groups.
“During our benchmarking visits, we observed that elsewhere, governments provide venues for non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to run their activities,” said Fatimah.
“We are adopting the same concept here so that workshops and community programmes can be conducted.
“We know many NGOs struggle to find affordable venues.
“Simply inform the centre operator, state the date, session length and number of participants, and the rooms will be reserved.”
She said the centre could also be used to host women’s economic empowerment courses, including cooking, handicraft, spa and massage therapy, and elderly care, with applications made through the Women’s Department.
The Sarawak Women and Family Department’s “Gold Family Care” programme will also be available, offering practical skills for families caring for elderly members.
The centre includes a food bank following the lead of the one in Kuching which has been highly effective and operating like a small supermarket.
“For example, a single mother once approached us saying she could no longer afford food for her children, and we were able to provide assistance.
“The aim is to support families experiencing hardship with essentials such as rice and cooking oil,” said Fatimah.
“During Ramadan, food distribution activities may be carried out for those who are reluctant to ask for help openly.”
In other news, Sarawak recorded 136 cases of homelessness through 74 operations and integrated surveillance conducted across the state last year.
According to the breakdown of cases, Sibu had the highest number with 48 individuals, followed by Bintulu (24), Kuching (22) and Miri (16).
Fatimah said her ministry continued to step up efforts for the homeless.
“Our main focus is to ensure that each rescued individual does not return to life on the streets.
“We want them to have shelter, employment and community support so that they can begin their lives anew,” she said after an operation which saw 17 homeless individuals rescued.
Fatimah highlighted the ministry’s commitment to helping the homeless rebuild their lives through various social assistance programmes, skills training and job placement.
She said the state government has two fully operational temporary transit centre (TTGs) in Kuching and Sibu, while similar facilities were being developed in Miri and Bintulu.
“TTGs are not merely temporary shelters. They are social rehabilitation centres where individuals can receive food, take a shower, change into clean clothing and sleep safely, while also helped to secure employment or be reunited with their family,” she elaborated.
The Sibu operation involved 152 personnel from various agencies, including the Resident’s Office and Sibu District Office, the police, Welfare Department, National Anti-Drug Agency, Sibu Health Office, Hospital Sibu, National Registration Department, Immigration Department and welfare volunteers.
