What specific challenges does the current Destitute Persons Act 1977 fail to address?

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The Destitute Persons Act 1977 is Under Review to Address Evolving Societal Issues

The current Destitute Persons Act 1977 is being reviewed by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development to ensure its continued relevance in addressing homelessness and vulnerable populations. This review may lead to the introduction of a new Act to replace the existing legislation, reflecting a need to modernize terminology, clarify agency powers, establish a clearer governance framework, and better balance rehabilitation with enforcement measures. The impetus for this review stems from contemporary challenges such as the increasing number of individuals begging and experiencing homelessness, alongside a noted deficiency in dedicated facilities for those with mental health conditions.
Modernisation of Terminology and Governance Framework

The ongoing review of the Destitute Persons Act 1977 specifically aims to update the language used within the legislation to align with current societal understanding and to establish a more defined structure for oversight. This includes clarifying the precise powers held by various agencies involved in addressing destitution and homelessness, thereby creating a more coherent and effective governance framework. The Ministry is also seeking to achieve a more effective balance between measures focused on rehabilitating individuals and those focused on enforcement actions.
Addressing Rising Homelessness and Mental Health Needs

A significant driver for the review is the observed increase in the number of individuals who are homeless or engage in begging. Furthermore, the existing legal framework is considered insufficient in providing adequate, dedicated facilities for homeless individuals who also suffer from mental health conditions. This gap highlights a need for legislative adjustments that can accommodate the complex needs of this vulnerable segment of the population.
Data on Elderly Individuals Under Care

Between January and April of 2026, a total of 206 elderly individuals were taken into care nationwide under Section 3(1) of Act 183. Within this period, Kuala Lumpur recorded 48 such cases. Notably, during the same timeframe, no persons with disabilities were taken into care under the provisions of this Act, indicating a specific focus on the elderly within these care provisions.
Support Mechanisms for Homeless Elderly

Elderly individuals experiencing homelessness, particularly in Kuala Lumpur, have access to support through facilities such as Anjung Singgah and transit homes. Assistance is provided following an assessment of individual circumstances, with some individuals found to be eligible for welfare aid, especially those requiring additional support due to their age and situation.

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What specific challenges does the current Destitute Persons Act 1977 fail to address?

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