Factors Influencing Wellbeing of the Homeless and The Moderating Role of Government Assistance
Rishetra Vamalatithan

Faculty of Management, Multimedia University, Selangor, Malaysia.
E-mail: rishetra02[at]gmail.com

Abstract

Homelessness has long been recognized as a worldwide problem that affects the poorest people in both developed and developing countries. Homelessness affects thousands of people in Malaysia, regardless of their age group, race, education, professions and geographical regions. All aspects of the human experience are significantly influenced by human needs that promote wellbeing. Basic needs such as food, water, healthcare, education, even shelters have often been difficult to be met. As per researchers, wellbeing is predicated on basic needs being met. Despite many attempts to tackle this enduring matter, however, it seems unresolved and difficult to achieve. At present, the Malaysian government delivers the matters regarding homelessness and begging based on the Destitute Persons Act 1977. As only a few non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are aware of their presence, currently there are no official figures indicating the number of homeless people in the region. The purpose of this research is to investigate the factors influencing the wellbeing of the homeless and the moderating role of government assistance. Data is collected via survey questions and interviews. The collected data has been analysed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Maslow^s theory of needs is used as the central focus on exploring how the attitude of people is stimulated by human desire in different communities in society to meet certain human needs. The structural theory was proposed on issues emerging due to the structure of the nation itself not on the destitute capabilities and government arrangements are best reflecting structural matters. And the Theory of Well-being has elements that leads to well-being. A better formulation of programmes and policies are needed to protect the needs, to be able to improve and promote the wellbeing of the homeless person and eliminate homelessness issues in the country.

Keywords: Keywords: homelessness, wellbeing, homeless people, factors, government

Topic: Strategic Management and Ecosystem Business