Theft remains the most prevalent offence among inmates, with 116 out of 341 offences recorded in 2024, according to Minister of Home Affairs Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman.
Addressing the 21st Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting on Wednesday, the minister cited a 2024 study by the Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies (CSPS), which found that 53 per cent of 111 inmates convicted of theft attributed their crimes to economic hardship. Difficulty in securing employment and financial struggles were among the primary reasons cited.
The minister also outlined key factors contributing to repeat incarcerations, including: Lack of resilience in overcoming external challenges; Insufficient family support; Re-exposure to negative influences; Persistent criminal behaviours; Difficulty in securing employment; Financial struggles and social stigma and barriers to reintegration.
To address these issues, the Prisons Department has implemented various rehabilitation programmes aimed at equipping inmates with skills and opportunities for reintegration. These include:
In-care rehabilitation – Focuses on spiritual and moral development, including Quran memorisation, counselling, vocational training, and physical rehabilitation.
Education and skills training – Collaborating with stakeholders to enhance inmates’ academic qualifications and ensure their credentials are recognised in the job market.
‘Insaf’ Project – Provides vocational training and wage-earning opportunities for inmates, allowing them to save for post-release needs or support their families.
The ‘Insaf’ Project generated BND6,000 in product sales in 2024, with the primary objective of equipping inmates with valuable skills for self-sufficiency and successful reintegration into society.
The ministry remains committed to enhancing rehabilitation efforts, reducing recidivism, and fostering a more inclusive environment for ex-inmates to rebuild their lives. – Fadley Faisal
