KOTA KINABALU: Enforcement against street beggars must be enhanced in view of their increasing presence in the city, said Api-Api assemblyman Loi Kok Liang.
He said while there are existing frameworks, for example the “rescue and placement” mechanism, enforcement efforts needed to be intensified to deal with these people.
“The framework exists. What is crucial now is consistent enforcement and sustained implementation,” he said, adding that under this approach, individuals apprehended from the streets are sent to temporary shelters for counselling, skills training, and identity verification.
They will be placed under supervision for approximately three months before further action is determined, he said in expressing concern over the increasing presence of these commonly referred to as “Palauh” community in the city centre.
They are seen begging, sleeping and just loitering in parts of the city particularly in Gaya Street, Kg Air, tourist zones, banking areas, restaurants, and major intersections, Loi said.
He noted that the issue has drawn increasing public attention as it affects the city’s image, residents’ comfort, and visitors’ experience.
He said this matter was previously raised during a meeting between Parti Warisan leaders and the Chief Minister’s Department concerning the broader issue of the significant rise in the number of foreigners in Sabah.
The discussion was not limited to the “Palauh” issue alone but covered overall management and policy implications, said Loi.
He urged the City Hall and other agencies to enhance operational frequency and inter-agency coordination, particularly in high-traffic and tourist areas.
Loi also encouraged the public to channel information through proper reporting mechanisms to assist authorities in carrying out their duties more effectively.
