Tiada layanan berbeza pelepasan Peter Anthony, kata Jabatan Penjara

Jabatan Penjara has clarified that there are no additional services or different release methods for Peter Anthony, the former Sabah infrastructure development minister, who was released on parole this March after serving nearly a year of a three-year sentence. Anthony was only considered for parole upon meeting specific criteria and undergoing a screening and assessment process.

While meeting the required time, it does not automatically qualify him for the PBSL (Probationary Benefit Scheme License) program. PBSL is not a complete dismissal, reduction, or shortening of the sentence handed down by the court. Those granted PBSL continue serving the remainder of their sentence in the community under the supervision, rules, monitoring, and oversight of the Department of Prisons.

Anthony was arrested in 2022 for falsifying documents from the Vice-President Assistant of the University Malaysia Sabah (UMS) 11 years ago, related to a contract for services and maintenance. He began serving his three-year prison sentence in the previous year, following the rejection of his final appeal to cancel the sentence on March 4, 2025.

He was subsequently released on parole in March. The Department of Prisons explained that parole decisions are made by a panel headed by the Commissioner General of Prisons, involving senior officers and representatives from related agencies. They emphasized that PBSL execution follows the principle of community reintegration while balancing public safety, individual rehabilitation, supervision, and preparation for reintegrating into family and society.

PBSL is granted to eligible prospects irrespective of their background, status, position, or influence. Individual status is not a factor that grants advantages or exceptions from the established eligibility and assessment process. The department stressed that comparison of release through PBSL as "different or distinct treatment" is inaccurate.

All considerations are based on eligibility, assessment, and established processes, while those granted PBSL remain under supervision until completing the remainder of their sentence. Previously, MCA President Wee Ka Siong questioned why there was no objection from Pakatan Harapan when Peter was released on parole, comparing the situation to the opposition party's calls for accountability over alleged fraud or misuse of power, especially in high-profile cases serving full prison terms.

The issue arose amid requests for forgiveness from former Prime Minister Najib Razak concerning the 1MDB scandal.