Beggars can earn RM1,000 daily, says Penang social welfare

They may be on the streets seeking alms for a living, but these beggars may have more money than the givers, said Penang Social Welfare director Said Sidup.

He said based on information obtained from beggars who were picked up by the authorities during operations, some of them could pocket up to RM1,000 a day.

"It is because of the generosity of Malaysians that gives opportunity for beggars to thrive on their kindness," he told reporters after a programme to educate the public on the need to address problems of beggars.

The programme was opened by State Health, Welfare, Caring Society and Environment chairman Phee Boon Poh.

As such, Said advised the public to be cautious when giving out alms to beggars as some of them were run by syndicates.

He said members of the public wishing to donate should give their donations to registered bodies, like mosques and welfare organisations.

The State Social Welfare Department had conducted 150 operations to clean the streets of beggars since January and May this year, during which 201 beggars were rounded up.

"A total of 142 of them are locals, while the remaining are foreigners," he added.