Stepping up rehab of inmates

Daily Express

27-06-2025

Published on: Friday, June 27, 2025
Published on: Fri, Jun 27, 2025
By: Winnie Kasmir Text Size: Ahmad Faudzi handing over the prize to the Director of Kota Kinabalu Women's Prison. SANDAKAN: The Malaysian Prisons Department is stepping up efforts to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of former inmates through its community-based programme involving selected participants referred to as 'prospects'. Deputy Commissioner General of Prisons (Rehabilitation) DCP Ahmad Faudzi Awang said the department is addressing the public stigma surrounding ex-prisoners by shifting how they are perceived. 'Initially, society tends to reject former inmates. That's why we now refer to them as prospects – individuals with potential who can be guided,' he said. He noted that outward change alone is insufficient, and that prospects must also demonstrate personal growth in behaviour and discipline. 'If they want acceptance, they must take the first step. We stress the importance of self-confidence and a positive attitude for them to be seen differently,' he said. Ahmad Faudzi said more than 600 employers have come forward to offer job opportunities, showing growing acceptance from the private sector. 'Industry involvement is crucial. It helps provide income for the prospects while also supporting national efforts to reduce dependence on foreign labour,' he said. He emphasised that training and skills acquired during incarceration equip prospects to compete in the open job market. This, he said, strengthens social reintegration efforts and contributes to the economy. 'It's time we stop viewing them as liabilities. They can serve as a capable workforce,' he said. Ahmad Faudzi spoke to reporters after officiating the 2025 Islamic Arts Festival for inmates from Sabah and the Federal Territory of Labuan, held at the Taman Wira Hall, Sandakan Prison. Also present was Sabah and Labuan Prisons Director, DCP Tey Hock Soon. The three-day event involved 120 prospects, including 88 men and 32 women from eight prisons across Sabah and Labuan, competing in various religious-themed contests. Tey said the programme is an annual initiative led by the Religious and Counselling Division at the Prisons Department headquarters, aimed at developing inmates' character through spiritual activities. Kota Kinabalu Prison was named overall champion in the male category, while Kota Kinabalu Women's Prison took the overall champion title for the female category. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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