Batu gajah: Various programmes encompassing academic education, TVET training, spiritual development, counselling, psychosocial support, entrepreneurship, and family institution empowerment are implemented to ensure the rehabilitation process of inmates is conducted holistically and effectively. Malaysian Prison Department deputy commissioner-general Rosoman Bin Abu Bakar @ Che Din emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating they are based on the principle that every individual deserves a second chance to improve their life and contribute back to their family, community, and country.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rosoman highlighted the Malaysian Prison Department's commitment to leading the national correctional service by ensuring initiatives that not only emphasize institutional security but also focus on moral formation, attitude changes, and the development of the potential of every inmate. He shared these insights during the visit of the Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Zara Salim to the Batu Gajah Correctional Centre (PKBG), with notable figures like Tan Sri Mohd Annuar Zaini and Datuk Salbiah Mohamed also present.
Rosoman noted that PKBG is a pivotal institution in the national correctional system, emphasizing comprehensive rehabilitation efforts through character development, education, and skills training, preparing residents to reintegrate as responsible and productive members of society.
Meanwhile, Syamsul Hazeman Md Salleh, the chief executive officer of MAIPk, stated that the agency has allocated RM396,660 since last year to implement initiatives at PKBG focusing on comprehensive human capital development. A key initiative is the Az-Zahra Academy, Malaysia's first women's tahfiz centre in correctional institutions, providing systematic modules for Quran memorization, recitation, and study circles to build spiritually strong and disciplined women.
Additionally, MAIPk has enhanced the women's kitchen and cafeteria facilities to serve as an entrepreneurship training centre meeting industry standards. Women inmates can undergo culinary training courses by certified providers, boosting their competencies in food preparation and entrepreneurship. This programme aims to equip women with skills to improve their quality of life, strengthen employability, and enable them to generate income post-rehabilitation.
Syamsul further added that this holistic approach is believed to empower women inmates by building self-confidence, strengthening their identity, and preparing them to return as productive, independent, and virtuous members of society.