PADAWAN: The Licensed Prisoner Release Programme (PBSL) provides a second chance for prison prospects across Malaysia, particularly in Sarawak, to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into the wider community.
Sarawak Prisons director Deputy Commissioner Teyun Thian Eim said among the initiatives undertaken is collaboration with employers to offer employment opportunities to prospects under the programme, with the aim of providing them with stable jobs and a steady source of income after their release.
“There are several companies that have employed former prospects released as Parolees (ODP) and Licensed Releasees (OBB), giving them permanent jobs like any other member of society. They are free and able to live within the community with a stable income.
“Some of them are even able to support their families back in their villages,” he said during the PBSL Madani Yakin programme themed “The Long-Awaited Homecoming”, held in conjunction with the upcoming Christmas celebration at Puncak Borneo Prison here on Monday (Dec 22).
Teyun said a total of 55 prison prospects across Sarawak were released under the PBSL Madani Yakin programme in conjunction with Christmas.
Of the total, 12 prospects were from Puncak Borneo Prison, nine from Sri Aman Central Prison, seven from Sibu Central Prison, 13 from Bintulu Correctional Centre and 12 from Miri Central Prison.
Following their release, he reminded the prospects to continue complying with all instructions and laws throughout their parole period to avoid being returned to prison.
For the record, across Sarawak, 30 OBB were handed over to their respective families, 20 OBB were placed with employers, while the remaining five OBB were accommodated at halfway houses.
Teyun said that from 2020 until November this year, a total of 3,943 individuals were released under the PBSL in Sarawak, with licence cancellations involving only 198 prospects, or 5.02 per cent.
He urged the prospects to make full use of this opportunity to change for the better and return to contributing positively to their families and society
