Malaysian Prisons Department denies claims of inmate hierarchy

The Malaysian Prisons Department has denied allegations made by singer and composer Yasin Sulaiman regarding the existence of a hierarchy within prisons based on wealth and influence. During a podcast appearance, Sulaiman claimed that inmates form groups referred to as ‘bos’ and ‘taiko’ and alleged that money and influence could facilitate the smuggling of drugs into correctional facilities.

Mohamad Rosidek Musa, the department’s senior director of prison policy, stated that these claims are untrue. He emphasized that the department follows strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) to address misconduct and that these protocols are reviewed and tightened annually. Rosidek noted that the department’s primary focus remains on rehabilitation programmes to help inmates reintegrate into society.

Addressing prison conditions, Rosidek mentioned that while overcrowding remains a challenge being addressed, conditions at Pengkalan Chepa Prison are under control due to the use of satellite prisons and inmate reintegration programmes that allow prisoners to work outside.