HOMELESS MATTERS DAY - “VISIBLE THE INVISIBLE” | ExCEL REPORT NO. 2 by LEE JIA YING

MINI REPORT

On 27th October 2018, I had indulged myself in the programme of HOMELESS MATTERS DAY - “VISIBLE THE INVISIBLE”. The programme was held at L50, UTM, starting from 8am to 2pm. This programme was presented by UHAK students of batch 2018/2019 Semester I, section 19. It aims to introduce the condition of homeless people to publics so that people can know more about the homeless issue in Malaysia. It was a one day exhibition for all participants and two months programme for organizer. The organizer took one and a half month to prepare and experience the life of homeless people at the street of City Square Shopping Mall, Johor Bahru. There were seminar by well-known organization speakers, games, exhibition, free dental check-up and health screening. The organizer shared their experience by showing us photos and videos during the sharing session. Students with different nationality had joined the programme which was held smoothly and succesfully.

SELF-REFLECTION

This was indeed an interesting programme to me. I was exposed to different perspectives regarding to the topic of this programme. Publics seldom lend a hand to homeless people due to the wrong conception that homeless people are those who creates social issues and problems. In fact, they are just ordinary people who desire for a stable and smooth life. They live and stay on the street due to various reasons, including abandonment and unemployment. There was a discussion made among us after the sharing session by organizers. I was given the opportunity to share my thoughts and listen to other opinions. I felt empathy for the homeless people especially the elders. This issue should be emphasized by the society with collaboration effort of people from all walks of life to reduce the number of homeless people in our country. I was glad as I was able to develop communication skills and thinking skills throughout this programme.