PRPI GIVES NEW HOPE AS INMATE SHARES RM1,000 DUIT RAYA WITH MOTHER

KLUANG, March 24 (Bernama) -- Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations this year carry a different meaning for an inmate under supervision (ODS) at the Kluang Inmate Reintegration Centre (PRP) after he had the opportunity to give duit raya to his mother for the first time since being imprisoned.

The inmate, who wished to be known only as Shah, 38, said he was able to do so after joining the Inmate Industrial Reintegration Programme (PRPI) seven months ago, working at a courier service company in Yong Peng, Batu Pahat.

He said the second chance given by the Prisons Department would not be wasted, especially now that he has his own income.

“I was imprisoned in 2024 for drug abuse and I deeply regret it. I am determined not to repeat the mistake when I am released, and if possible, I want to continue working here.

“I want to earn my own salary and give duit raya to my mother every year. In the past, because of drugs, I took a lot of money from her. Now it is time for me to repay her,” he told Bernama at the PRP Kluang Hari Raya Aidilfitri Celebration 2026 here today.

Shah, also known as Along among PRP Kluang inmates, said he is expected to be released in another 16 months.

The eldest of nine siblings also admitted that the PRPI has brought many benefits to inmates like him, especially in helping them readjust to society before their release.

“I am touched that although I am still an ODS, my colleagues accept me without discrimination. This makes me eager to be free. This programme has also made me realise how wasteful it is to spend time on drugs,” he said.

Meanwhile, PRP Kluang Administrative Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Prisons Syarifuddin Kasimin, said a total of 480 ODS are under his supervision, with 200 of them involved in PRPI, comprising those nearing the end of their detention period.

He said participants are carefully selected, including the need to demonstrate high discipline and undergo a one-month observation period before being allowed to work outside.

“ODS working outside are still monitored by Prisons Department personnel. So far in Johor, there are five industry partners involved, namely J&T in Yong Peng, Claytan Sdn Bhd in Ayer Hitam, LY Furniture in Sri Gading, as well as CTM Roofing Sdn Bhd and Alam Satu Sdn Bhd in Kluang,” he said.

He added that apart from exposure to the working environment, the programme also helps inmates build savings as preparation for a new life after release.

“In addition to external industry placements, ODS at PRP Kluang are also given training in agriculture, livestock, culinary arts, as well as technical skills such as air-conditioning maintenance and electrical goods,” he said.

-- BERNAMA