Miri, Bintulu Homeless Transit Centres near operational readiness

KUCHING: Homeless Transit Centres (TTG) in Bintulu and Miri are targeted to begin operations by the first quarter of 2027, providing temporary shelter for homeless individuals in both areas.

Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah said the Miri centre is expected to commence operations in December 2026 while the Bintulu facility is scheduled to open in January 2027, barring any unforeseen circumstances.

She said both buildings had been completed, while the non-governmental organisations (NGOs) appointed to manage the facilities had also been identified.

“Preparations are now focused on providing furniture and essential equipment to ensure both premises are ready to accommodate occupants.

“God willing, the Miri and Bintulu centres will be able to begin operations, and we hope these facilities will help homeless individuals who have nowhere to stay and are forced to sleep on pavements.”

She was speaking at a press conference held in conjunction with a courtesy visit by Hidayah Centre Foundation (HCF) Sarawak here on Wednesday (Nov 11).

Fatimah said her ministry remained committed to expanding strategic collaborations with NGOs, government agencies and the private sector to ensure vulnerable groups received temporary shelter and appropriate social support.

She added that the involvement of strategic partners, including the corporate sector through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, was crucial in supporting the continuity and sustainability of social welfare services in Sarawak.