Kuala lumpur: The Prisons (Amendment) Bill 2026, tabled for its first reading in the Dewan Rakyat today, proposes the use of electronic monitoring devices on inmates and the appointment of volunteers for rehabilitation programmes. Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah presented the Bill to amend the Prisons Act 1995 (Act 537), with its second reading scheduled during the current parliamentary session.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the amendment aims to empower the commissioner-general to mandate the installation of electronic monitoring devices on inmates, including those in custody, released on licence, or on parole. The Bill specifies that the device would track inmates both within and outside prison boundaries.

The proposed amendment outlines penalties for tampering with, damaging, destroying, or removing the electronic monitoring device. Offenders could face imprisonment of up to three years and may be required to compensate for any resultant loss or damage.

Additionally, the Bill introduces a new Section 66A, allowing the commissioner-general to appoint volunteers to assist prison officers in rehabilitation programmes. These volunteers may receive allowances determined by the minister, in consultation with the finance minister. However, they will not receive remuneration and will be considered public servants under the Penal Code while performing their duties.

Furthermore, the Bill seeks to increase the general penalty for offences under Act 537 or its regulations where no specific penalty is provided. The maximum fine is proposed to rise from RM500 to RM5,000, and the maximum prison term from six months to one year.

Other proposed amendments include the establishment of a new rank of chief assistant superintendent of prison for senior officers and chief sub-inspector of prison as the highest rank for junior officers.