Prisons Department aims to expand family rehab programme nationwide to curb recidivism

NIBONG TEBAL: The Malaysian Prisons Department aims to expand a pioneering family and parenting rehabilitation programme nationwide to curb recidivism among inmates, according to Deputy Commissioner-General Rosoman Abu Bakar. The Kompas Sejahtera initiative, which provides essential life skills to inmates before their reintegration into society, benefitted 224 male prisoners at the Seberang Prai Prison during its pilot run.

The department hopes to roll out the programme across all correctional facilities in Malaysia, pending permission from the programme's creators. Kompas Sejahtera was developed in collaboration with Universiti Utara Malaysia and the National Population and Family Development Board. The Prisons Department is also working to certify the training for facilitators and seeking recognition in the Malaysia Book of Records.

Rosoman emphasized that inmates leaving prison must develop the awareness, knowledge, and skills to return as responsible fathers, husbands, and members of society, thereby reducing the likelihood of re-offending. He urged the inmates to view the programme as a turning point, stressing that a father's role extends beyond financial provision to encompass love, attention, education, guidance, and character building.