Factors influencing wellbeing of the homeless and moderating role of the government in Malaysia

Homelessness has long been acknowledged as a global issue affecting the poorest individuals in both developed and developing countries. Homelessness affects thousands of people in Malaysia, regardless of their age group, race, education, profession, and geographical region. However, despite many attempts to tackle the homeless issues, it seems unresolved and difficult to get to the bottom of the problems. This study seeks to examine comprehensively the multifaceted factors that influence the wellbeing of homeless people, focusing on health, quality of life, social relationships, knowledge and skills, as well as the moderating role of government assistance. Data is collected using questionnaires. This study employs structural equation modelling (SEM) in SmartPLS to examine the interconnections among Poor Health, Poor Quality of Life, Lack of Social Relationships, Knowledge and Skills, Government Assistance, and the Wellbeing of those experiencing homelessness. The findings demonstrate noteworthy correlations between the aforementioned characteristics and the overall welfare of individuals experiencing homelessnes. Other than Maslow’s theory, the study also applied Structural Theory and the Theory of Wellbeing. The hypothesized paths relationship between Poor Health, Poor Quality of Life, Lack of Social Relationships, Knowledge and Skills, and the Wellbeing of the Homeless are found to be statistically significant. The provision of government assistance has a crucial role in mitigating the impact of knowledge and skills on the overall wellbeing of individuals experiencing homelessness, as evidenced by statistically significant findings. The findings indicate that those experiencing homelessness face significant challenges in achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, as well as cultivating satisfactory relationships and acquiring the necessary information and skills to enhance their overall wellbeing. The government's provision of support and assistance is crucial, particularly in facilitating the acquisition of necessary information and skills to provide a satisfactory standard of living. Homeless people require the acquisition of knowledge and skills that would render them employable. The provision of ongoing government aid and more effective policy frameworks have potential to significantly enhance the welfare of homeless people in Malaysia