‘KDN ignored my ideas to help ex-cons’

Malaysian Crime Preventive Foundation vice-chairman Lee Lam Thye says his numerous suggestions to the Home Ministry to help rehabilitate former prisoners were brushed aside.

PETALING JAYA: The Home Ministry’s impotence in helping former prisoners obtain a new lease of life is among the factors that has contributed to the recent escalation in crime rate.

Malaysian Crime Preventive Foundation vice-chairman Lee Lam Thye said for the past 10 years he has written numerous letters to the ministry (KDN) on how to help rehabilitate former prisoners.

“Since 2000 I have given my views on these issues but I’ve not received a single feedback from the authorities. I’ve given up,” he said in a phone interview.

Lee said the government should be the one to lead the initiative to help create job opportunities for these former prisoners.

“The government should have come up with a plan. The problem now is when prisoners have served their sentences and are released, the private sector is unwilling to offer them jobs.

“So, instead of depending on these private companies, why not the government create projects and offer job opportunities to these former prisoners?” asked Lee.

“By doing this, it will definitely give an impression to the private sector that these former prisoners are capable of performing jobs just like everybody else.

“This was my idea back in 2000 but until today the authorities have yet to be hear me out or review my suggestions,” he said.

Najib must lead the way

Lee added that the government should take the lead to educate the society on the rehabilitation of former prisoners.

“They will definitely go back to committing crimes because they are helpless. No one cares for them. Life is hard when no one wants to listen to them. The government should lead the way,” he added.

When asked on the category of criminals who should be given a chance, Lee said that everyone should be given a second chance, including hardcore criminals.

Lee, nevertheless, praised the Prison’s Department for contributing ideas and taking initiatives to help convicts during their detention period.
“There have been a huge improvement in the prison system in terms of educating former prisoners. They have done a marvelous job,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lee is still hoping for his ideas to be heard by the government and is hoping that they will be implemented.

“I hope the prime minster will focus on curbing crimes for the sake of our nation. I believe that he will give his utmost attention to this issue,” he said.