If we could, we should always help those in need. Well, if we earn lesser than RM10,000 per month, maybe we need to think twice when it comes to ‘helping’ beggars. They may be richer than we are. Here’s that report in NST says.com on beggars in Johor. Beggars in Johor Bahru are earning up to RM300 daily because of the generosity of the public. In other words, up to RM10,000 per month.
These beggars are already employing intelligence in their business. They shift their ‘place of business’ often or even operating at erratic hours. This is to prevent from being ‘rescued’ by the Social Welfare Department who would usually place them in welfare institutions for rehabilitation.The article also pointed out that begging is illegal here in Malaysia. Reasons for some of them to start begging include financial problems, unemployment, and alcohol and drug addiction.
With regards to financial problems, I think it’s important for everyone to have enough financial awareness and not fall into the trap of overspending or even participating in some pyramid schemes with the thinking that their money can be doubled within months for example. There’s also help given to those who could still restructure their debts. With regards to unemployment, except for those lying on bed in a hospital, everyone who is able should just get a job because this is life.
We are very fortunate that there are so many businesses that are in need of people. Latest news on workers shortage? Here. For alcohol and drug addiction, I think this is a huge social issue that has continued to happen. Just have to keep doing more instead of the same applying the same processes year after year. Of course we should not kid ourselves that this can be fully eradicated because it is still happening even in many more advanced nations.
Come to think of it, if the report is accurate and these beggars do earn RM10k every month, they may even be owning a few properties if this is true because their cost is low while their ‘profits’ are high. One full day of work meant no time for coffee or tea, just need to drink water and eat bread or a simple meal. In other words, they could save up most of what they earned from begging.
Come to think of it, I think it’s also because we are a generous society and I personally know of many friends who help legitimate charities in both time and money. We must keep this up and help those really in need. As for beggars, I do not personally give any. However, every time I see an uncle / aunty selling biscuits etc, I would buy it from them. I am not sure if this is better than giving to beggars though. Just a personal preference I guess. Happy earning and helping.
written on 13 March 2018
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