Beggars

Beggars in the city

From Suara Karya

I am deeply concerned and saddened to see what has become a common sight at intersections in Jakarta: street vendors, buskers, homeless children and an increasing number of beggars asking for money from passengers in buses and cars. There are also beggars with leprosy. These people should be receiving care at a proper health facility.

I am fully aware that this may be a result from the protracted monetary crisis. Unemployment is rife due to mass layoffs and the number of socially disadvantaged has soared, forcing them to beg on the streets.

Now that the holy fasting month of Ramadhan is upon us, we will see more and more beggars on the streets because they think this is the time when Muslims give alms to the poor.

Why isn't the Ministry of Social Affairs doing something to help with these social problems? Isn't the state responsible for these unfortunate people? Why is the ministry letting them roam the streets?

Not only is their presence a real eyesore, but the situation can provide real criminals with an opportunity to commit crimes by pretending to be beggars.

I think it is high time for the ministry to do something to overcome the many complex social problems of this nation.

HESTI NUGRAHAENI

Jakarta