The long-awaited transit centre for the homeless or also known as the ‘Pusat Transit Gelandangan’ in Jalan C.Y. Choy in George Town will finally be made available from Aug 1 this year, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said.

Chow said it was very important for such an initiative to exist in any state for that matter to prioritise the safety of the homeless as they are also an important part of our society.

“This transit centre will be an ideal platform for the homeless, although temporary until they can return to their respective homes or be offered a space at any old folks’ home in the state.

“They (homeless) are one of us. So, we mustn’t neglect their existence but instead be more compassionate and provide the needful for them to run their daily lives.

“This project involves a lot of parties, such as the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and many others.

“It is through their unwavering support and commitment that we can see this project finally kicking off,” Chow said in his speech during the launching and handing over ceremony of the transit centre from the state government to the state Welfare Department (JKM) in Jalan C.Y. Choy yesterday.

It is learnt that there are two units at the transit centre now, with one of them being an existing Category Two heritage building (two-storey), which has been conserved and maintained very well.

The other unit is a three-storey building that has been built just behind the heritage building.

Chow said a total of RM4.4 million had been spent by the Penang government on this project, which is located on a 1,370sq m land owned by the MBPP.

“I am made to understand that this transit centre can accommodate up to 88 residents, and it will be equipped with facilities such as laundry, café, recreational space for senior citizens, community centre and many others,” he added.

Chow also said there will be many opportunities for organisations and the public to contribute to the transit centre when it is fully operational from Aug 1.

“We have witnessed how busy the Komtar Bus Terminal area can be when donors stop their vehicles by the side to distribute food packets to the homeless.

“With this new initiative, the transit centre, which will also be known as a designated distribution centre, will enable interested parties to contribute food or other items to the homeless in a more systematic and organised manner.

“Also, we are open to welcoming NGOs and other bodies with the right skills to come in and conduct workshops, courses and exciting programmes to groom and equip the homeless to stay relevant and competitive in this era of digitalisation,” Chow said.

Meanwhile, state JKM director Zakaria Taib said each resident could live at the transit centre for a maximum period of 14 days subject to approval for extension if needed.

Source: Buletin Mutiara