The Malaysian Prison Department says academic and TVET programmes help ensure holistic and effective rehabilitation for inmates.
BATU GAJAH: Various programmes encompassing academic education, TVET training, spiritual development, counselling, psychosocial support, entrepreneurship, and family institution empowerment to ensure the rehabilitation process of prospects behind bars is conducted holistically and effectively.
Malaysian Prison Department deputy commissioner-general Rosoman Bin Abu Bakar @ Che Din said that the programme was implemented based on the principle that every individual deserves a second chance to improve their life and contribute back to their family, community and country.
“The Malaysian Prison Department is always committed as the leader of the national correctional service by implementing various initiatives that not only emphasise the aspect of institutional security but also focus on the formation of morals, attitude changes, and the development of the potential of every inmate,” he said.
He said this in a speech during the visit of the Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Zara Salim to the Batu Gajah Correctional Centre (PKBG) here today.
Also present during the visit were Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk) president Tan Sri Mohd Annuar Zaini, and Perak Women, Family, Social Welfare, Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Committee chairman Datuk Salbiah Mohamed.
Rosoman said that the PKBG is one of the important institutions in the national correctional system that emphasises comprehensive rehabilitation efforts through the approach of character development, education, and skills training as preparation for residents to return as responsible and productive members of society.
Meanwhile, MAIPk chief executive officer Syamsul Hazeman Md Salleh said that the agency has allocated RM396,660 since last year up to now to implement several initiatives at the PKBG that emphasise comprehensive human capital development.
Among the main initiatives implemented is the establishment of the Az-Zahra Academy, which is the first women’s tahfiz centre in correctional institutions in Malaysia.
He said the academy provides modules for memorisation, recitation, and study circles that are systematically organised to produce disciplined women who are proficient in the Quran and possess spiritual strength as a foundation for building a better life after completing the rehabilitation period.
“In addition, MAIPk has also upgraded the women’s kitchen and cafeteria facilities as an entrepreneurship training centre that meets industry standards. In addition, women have the opportunity to take culinary training courses conducted by certified training providers to enhance their competencies in food preparation and entrepreneurship.
“This programme provides opportunities for women inmates to acquire skills that can enhance their quality of life, strengthen their employability, and open avenues for them to be independent and generate income after the rehabilitation period,” he said.
He added that the holistic approach is believed to be able to help women prospects build self-confidence, strengthen their identity, and prepare them to return to functioning as productive, independent and virtuous members of society.
