KUCHING: The Sarawak Personal Bodyguards Association (PPPS) has urged the Malaysian Government, particularly the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Human Resources, to reconsider the restrictions preventing former convicts from entering the security industry.
President Bolhasan Putit stressed that former offenders deserve a second chance to contribute to society, saying individuals who have served their sentences should not face barriers to employment.
He proposed that the restrictions be reviewed and categorised based on the nature of the crime, and suggested implementing disciplinary and psychological screenings, along with specialised training, to ensure integrity.
“The PPPS believes that security and rehabilitation do not have to be in conflict.
“In fact, through controlled employment opportunities, we can build a safer, fairer and more humane society.
“True rehabilitation begins with a second chance,” he said in a Facebook statement.
Bolhasan added that providing opportunities for former convicts could help reduce recidivism rates.
He added that the security sector is facing an ongoing workforce shortage and that former convicts could fill crucial roles.
“Global statistics show that former convicts who are employed legally are more likely to stay crime-free.
“Former convicts who are disciplined and pass security screenings can also become valuable assets with minimal training costs,” he said.
The PPPS also urged the government to align its policies with the inclusive principles of Malaysia MADANI, which advocates for rehabilitation and human development.
“By supporting former convicts with employment, we can create an environment of trust, fairness and inclusivity,” he added.
