The issue of homeless people and beggars commonly known as vagrants is not often understood by the public. Some find them a nuisance and best kept away from the society. Some empathise with their plight and see nothing wrong with them around.
The citizen journalists in Penang have mingled with some of these people who sleep on the streets. They have different reasons for doing so. Some just enjoy the freedom; some did it as a last resort.
Citizen journalist Chan Lilian covered an operation to survey the situation of vagrants in Georgetown by the Welfare Department.
Seven vagrants were rescued and will be sent to a shelter home, pending further investigaton. Those who have families will be advised to return home. Meanwhile, those who really need a place to stay or can be rehabilitated will be relocated to a shelter.
Video by Chan Lilian, Citizen Journalist