Kuala lumpur: The Home Ministry (KDN) is implementing a comprehensive reform of the country's prison management system by emphasizing the well-being of prospects and the effectiveness of rehabilitation outside the walls. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stated that apart from improving physical facilities such as dilapidated prisons, focus is also being given to the management of vulnerable groups among prospects such as the elderly and disabled.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saifuddin Nasution highlighted that there are approximately 4,000 individuals in vulnerable groups within prisons, including physically disabled or elderly people who have been convicted and sentenced. He stressed the need for facilities that are more accessible to these groups, including improved toilet facilities, and emphasized the moral responsibility to manage this issue.
The ministry is also exploring the replacement of dilapidated prisons such as Pengkalan Chepa Prison in Kelantan and Alor Setar Prison in Kedah to improve existing infrastructure that is no longer suitable for current needs. The Ministry of Home Affairs, through the Prisons Department, is implementing rehabilitation programs outside prison walls, such as the parole system and Compulsory Attendance Order (PKW), which have shown effectiveness in reducing recidivism rates.
Saifuddin Nasution cited data from the Prisons Department indicating that only one in 800 program participants returned to crime after release, compared to a much higher recidivism rate among those who served full sentences in prison. He noted that mentorship outside of prison enables participants to gain skills and undergo positive changes.
The community-based approach also aids in shifting public perception of prospects, as they demonstrate their ability to contribute back to society. Saifuddin Nasution explained that initial resistance from communities has decreased, with some now requesting an increase in the number of prospects placed in their areas.
To address prison overcrowding, with current numbers at 87,000 individuals compared to a capacity of 73,000, Saifuddin Nasution mentioned that the Ministry of Home Affairs is finalizing an amendment to the Prison Act to allow for house arrest orders for remand prisoners. He pointed out that 30,000 individuals in prisons have not been convicted and are in remand due to inability to pay bail, contributing significantly to overcrowding.
The infrastructure and rehabilitation system reforms reflect the government's efforts to make the country's justice system more inclusive and humane, aligning with the values of Malaysia MADANI, according to Saifuddin Nasution.