Kuala lumpur: The government is prepared to facilitate further investigations into the findings and conclusions of a public inquiry by the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) regarding the unrest at Taiping Prison last year. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stated that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is expected to complete its investigation into the incident based on the SUHAKAM report, which he presented to the Cabinet recently.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saifuddin emphasized that if a case has gone through a proper inquiry process, involving evidence gathering, witness interviews, and comprehensive findings compiled into a report, then any necessary follow-up investigation by the police should proceed accordingly. He asserted that the government's principle is clear-what is right is right, and wrongdoing will not be defended. He expressed confidence that the Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail will continue or complete any necessary investigation while considering SUHAKAM's findings.
Saifuddin stressed that the government would not shield any individual or institution found to have acted improperly concerning the incident. He acknowledged that speaking the truth can be painful but maintained that it is always better in the long run. He highlighted the importance of integrity within the organization, praising the performance and reputation of the Prisons Department over the past three years.
On May 27, the Prisons Department announced that it would provide full cooperation to relevant authorities in reviewing the findings and conclusions of SUHAKAM's public inquiry into the incident at Taiping Prison. The department takes seriously every finding, recommendation, and issue highlighted in the report, including allegations involving prison management and personnel.
Previously, media reports revealed that SUHAKAM's Public Inquiry Panel, in its final findings on the riot that occurred at Taiping Prison on January 17, 2025, which resulted in the death of an elderly inmate, recommended that the facility be converted into a museum as it is no longer suitable for use as a prison.