LUBOK ANTU: The Social Welfare Office (PKMB) of Sri Aman is closely monitoring reports of an unregistered care centre operating without approval from the Sarawak Social Welfare Department (JKM).
On Tuesday (March 25), the PKMB Sri Aman Enforcement Unit received a complaint about an unregistered care centre in Kampung Melayu, Lubok Antu, prompting an immediate inspection and investigation.
According to PKMB Sri Aman, the facility is managed by an individual and houses five adult male converts aged 48 to 67, originally from Sri Aman, Kuching and Pusa.
“We have found that the care centre is not yet registered with JKM.
“Therefore, we urge the operator to register the facility as an official care centre if they wish to continue providing care for those in need.
“In addition, JKM will continue monitoring the premises to ensure it operates legally and complies with the Care Centre Act regulations,” the statement said.
The operator has been instructed to visit the nearest social welfare office to begin registration.
It is understood that the premises was initially used as a tahfiz centre, but in recent years, it has been repurposed as a shelter for individuals without a place to stay or who have been rejected by their families.
“One of the rooms in the building is also rented out to a teacher who has yet to find permanent housing,” the statement added.
JKM’s investigation confirmed that all five residents stay free of charge, and the operator covers their daily expenses, including food, clothing and medical costs.
The individuals do not work due to old age, physical disabilities or health issues.
Authorities noted that the conditions within the premises were unsanitary, with dust, urine odour and disorganised living spaces.
A motorcycle was parked in the living room, while several unmounted mirror frames were placed in one of the residents’ rooms, posing a potential safety hazard.
