The booming business behind urban begging

The Star

22-05-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Beggars allegedly linked to syndicates have become a common sight in the city, preying on the goodwill of people.
Observations suggest these beggars are often transported and strategically placed at key tourist hotspots and busy public transport stations, targeting both locals and tourists.
Around the Bangsar LRT station, several beggars were observed loitering with crutches, bandages and plastic containers in hand.
A business owner at Menara UOA in Bangsar, who only wants to be identified as Yuan, has voiced concerns about beggars operating at the train station.
He claimed that many are foreigners, possibly part of a syndicate consisting of middle-aged men and women, and sometimes children.
'They often arrive in wheelchairs or with walking sticks, rotate shifts, and either come by train or are transported here,' he said.
Yuan, who has interacted with the beggars, noted that they pretended not to understand English, Chinese and Malay until he mentioned the police.
'Some showed their passports, while others became defensive.'
He estimated that these beggars earn between RM300 and RM500 daily from sympathetic passers-by, notably young professionals.
Having worked in the area for over 15 years, Yuan observed that these individuals have been a fixture since before the pandemic.
'It's concerning because many appear to walk normally once they leave,' he added.
He emphasised the need for increased security measures from authorities and station operators, especially with Malaysia's image at stake.
'This situation does not reflect well on our country, especially with many visitors coming here.'
Yazid, a 53-year-old business owner from Jalan Maarof in Bangsar, said he has seen a van picking up several beggars from the LRT station after hours.
'The man who was in a wheelchair could actually stand, fold his equipment, and get into the vehicle.
'Another man with a walking stick could suddenly manage the road kerbs like a normal person. How bizarre,' he said.
In the bustling and historic Jonker Walk in Melaka, a stark contrast unfolds as beggars sit on sidewalks with cups before them while tourists pass.
Business owner Lee Chee Seng described this as a common yet saddening sight.
'They have been around for a while, often switching locations in the city. Some are homeless and destitute, while others make a living from begging,' he said.
Lee said more must be done to help these people and preserve Melaka's tourism and city image.