Kuih Raya made by inmates are not dirty, says Malaysian Prisons Department

 

IN MALAYSIA, inmates are given the opportunity to participate in various rehabilitation programmes, including skills training such as food preparation, handicrafts and light industrial products.

These programmes are managed by the Malaysian Prisons Department as part of rehabilitation efforts and to prepare inmates for reintegration into society.

Note that products such as festive biscuits produced through this initiative are marketed to the public, especially ahead of festive seasons.

Recently, however, there have been claims that festive biscuits made by inmates are unhygienic because they neglect personal cleanliness and rarely bathe.

In reply to this allegation, the Malaysian Prisons Department said the production of festive biscuits and other food products in prisons is strictly regulated and is in compliance with hygiene standards set by the Ministry of Health.

Inmates also undergo health screenings and receive typhoid vaccinations, while maintaining proper personal hygiene at all times.

The public is advised not to be influenced by baseless allegations and need not hesitate to purchase festive biscuits or other food products made by inmates.

According to a report by Berita Harian Singapore, festive biscuits from Malaysian prisons recorded RM1 mil in sales for two consecutive years (2025 and 2026).

Each year in the lead-up to Aidilfitri, these inmate-made festive treats are highly sought after, valued not only for their taste but also for their affordability.— Focus Malaysia