THE Aidilfitri atmosphere at Masjid Putra this morning was marked by the presence of a group of foreign beggars observed actively seeking alms outside the mosque compound.
A survey by Harian Metro found about 10 individuals, including men, women and children, loitering around the mosque’s main entrance as early as 7am.
Some were seen bringing young children in baby strollers, believed to attract attention and sympathy from worshippers arriving for prayers.
It is understood that most of the beggars were foreign nationals from the Middle East, with some claiming to be from Palestine, as well as individuals said to be from Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Several women and children were also seen seated along the main access route, extending their hands to solicit donations from passers-by.
There were also local individuals with disabilities (OKU) who displayed medical documents as proof while seeking assistance.
One foreign man in his 30s, who claimed to be from Palestine, said he had been in Malaysia since last year after previously residing in Jordan with his family.
“I currently do not have a job. I live not far from here, about a 15-minute walk away.
“I ask for the public’s help to support my family’s cost of living in Malaysia. I am unemployed and still looking for work. Right now, I do not even have money for food for Aidilfitri,” he said.
Another woman in her 30s, who also claimed to be from Palestine, was seen silently extending her hand to ask for money while indicating a need for food for herself and her child.
However, she declined to speak when approached and left shortly after with others believed to be from the same group.
Previous reports have indicated that groups of foreign beggars, some believed to originate from the Middle East, have been using claims of conflict and hardship as a pretext to solicit sympathy in high-traffic areas around the capital, including tourist hotspots. - March 21, 2026
