In a recent Facebook posting, Azmi mooted for just a small area within the mosque’s compound to be dedicated as a shelter for the homeless, similar to that provided by other mosques in the vicinity such as Masjid Jamek.
“I am begging for the part from where we take off our slippers to a limited shelter space [sic]. That is all I am asking. Just a shelter or a space in the masjid at night, and not in the prayer area.”
Taking into consideration that the mosque is a tourist attraction as well as a house of prayer for Muslims, Azmi suggested the shelter be opened only from 11pm to 5am, long after tourists had left and well before they were not up and about again.
Azmi also countered the often cited concerns of cleanliness and crime, saying that the homeless could be educated on how to clean up after themselves and that the guards on duty could prevent any form of theft from occurring while the homeless sought shelter there.
“They (the management) says it (the premises) will be dirty, but I know they have cleaners. If they (the homeless) are dirty, help them clean up. They say they (the homeless) might steal, but the Masjid does appoint guards.
“When the homeless were asked as to why they go to Masjid Negara, [many of them said] it’s a safe place, isn’t it?”
Azmi pointed out that despite the mosque’s ability to accommodate hundreds of people at any one time, the homeless were often seen standing outside in the pouring rain as they were not welcomed inside the mosque’s compound.
“I do know of other friendlier houses of worship, which accept the ones that are in need. No questions asked. I heard there is even a laundry service provided. I heard ladies with children can get shelter, work and still take care of their little ones with some earnings.”
Merely hours after the posting, which was shared by close to 2,000 Facebook users, Masjid Negara responded on its own page, acknowledging Azmi’s request and offering to hold a meeting with him to discuss the matter further.
“We have agreed to arrange a meeting [with Azmi] to discuss ways on which we can help the homeless. In our reply to Azmi’s email, we have stated our willingness to hold the meeting.”