Mayor Urges Better Mental Health Strategy for the Homeless
KUCHING : An elderly man believed to be homeless was detained early this morning after allegedly throwing a stone at a car along Jalan Central Timur, raising alarm among locals and sparking concern from Kuching South Mayor, Dato Wee Hong Seng.
The suspect, reportedly apprehended with the help of nearby joggers and a dog before the arrival of police, is currently in police custody.
Mayor Wee addressed the media, expressing concern that the incident may be more than an isolated act of aggression. “From our observations, the individual may be suffering from a mental health condition, but this needs further investigation,” he said.
He praised the efforts of enforcement agencies in managing the homeless situation but warned that individuals suffering from mental illnesses may be slipping through the cracks.
“The man had been caught by MBKS security before, but back then, he did not cause harm. This time, he damaged a vehicle. We must now wait for the car owner to decide on pressing charges,” Wee said.
Calling for a more holistic approach, Wee suggested introducing a ‘three-strikes’ intervention policy to deal with repeat offenders who pose a risk due to mental instability. He admitted that current laws and limited authority make it difficult for the council alone to take long-term action.
“We must recognise that a smart city should also protect its vulnerable citizens. Not everyone is born healthy. Mental illness isn’t easy to treat—it requires time, proper medication, emotional support, and the involvement of families,” he added.
He stressed the importance of prevention and early intervention, highlighting that the reintegration rate for mentally ill individuals remains low despite efforts from associations like the Sarawak Mental Health Association.
“We need a national-level strategy that stops pushing responsibilities between agencies. Prevention and rehabilitation are the only way forward.”
