Stronger prison integrity, security safeguards needed

KUALA LUMPUR: The need to strengthen integrity and tighten security procedures in prisons has come under renewed focus amid concerns that weaknesses in the system could facilitate contraband smuggling and undermine inmate rehabilitation.

Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said integrity among wardens and prison personnel must become part of the prison service's work culture.

"Integrity and good practices should become a work culture and not merely an individual practice or personal stand.

"Prison officers and wardens are entrusted with a great responsibility of maintaining security, discipline and order within prisons. There must be a strong culture of integrity at all levels," he said.

He stressed that rehabilitation should not come at the expense of security.

Lee said the Prisons Department should regularly review and upgrade its standard operating procedures to identify and close loopholes that could be exploited for corruption or contraband smuggling.

"Perhaps the Prisons Department should look at rotating prison staff and wardens at regular intervals. This could help prevent abuse of power and reduce the possibility of corrupt practices taking root.

"There should also be constant evaluation of the security system to ensure there are no loopholes which can be exploited," he said.

Meanwhile, civil society group Hayat, which deals with the reintegration of former prisoners into society, said efforts to curb contraband smuggling should be accompanied by greater attention to inmates' basic needs and welfare.

The organisation said addressing prisoners' underlying needs was important to creating a safer prison environment and supporting rehabilitation.