Kuala lumpur: The Dewan Rakyat today proposed a comprehensive reform of the country's prison and detention management system, including the development of humane standards to ensure effective rehabilitation and protect detainees' welfare through an integrated approach.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the proposal was raised by members of parliament in response to concerns over overcrowding in prisons and detention depots, poor infrastructure, and the lack of adequate medical facilities, as highlighted in the 2023 Annual Report and Financial Statements of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM).
Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari (PH-Sungai Petani) urged the government to introduce a minimum standard for prison management to strengthen the detention system, uphold inmates' rights, and facilitate the work of civil servants. He emphasized the importance of enhancing enforcement training through collaboration with SUHAKAM in developing human rights modules.
Teresa Kok Suh Sim (PH-Seputeh) supported the call for reform, stressing the need for urgent improvements to infrastructure in detention facilities. She pointed out that poor and dilapidated conditions pose health risks and that overcrowding accelerates the spread of infectious diseases.
Datuk Dr. Ahmad Marzuk Shaary (PN-Pengkalan Chepa) described prison overcrowding as a humanitarian crisis requiring urgent reform. The issue received bipartisan support, with contributions from government and opposition MPs, including Datuk Capt (Rtd) Dr. Zulkafperi Hanapi (PN-Tanjong Karang), Cha Kee Chin (PH-Rasah), Syahredzan Johan (PH-Bangi), and Young Syefura Othman (PH-Bentong).
MPs also raised concerns about the social protection of gig economy workers, calling for legislation to safeguard their rights. Datuk Idris Ahmad (PN-Bagan Serai) highlighted the legal vulnerabilities faced by gig workers, who constitute a significant portion of the workforce.
V. Sivakumar (PH-Batu Gajah) noted the lack of adequate protection and safety nets for gig workers under current labor laws, leaving them exposed to risks such as accidents and illness.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said emphasized that the tabling and debate of SUHAKAM's Annual Report in the Dewan Rakyat is a vital democratic tradition. She stated that it offers a platform for open dialogue and the proposal of improvements to human rights policies and practices.