Suhakam uncovers another filthy detention centre

The Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) has uncovered yet another detention centre that is so filthy that even those working there are falling sick.

This time round, the subject of their spot check was the Tanah Merah Immigration Depot in Kelantan.

According to Suhakam chairperson Razali Ismail, the facility was overcrowded, dirty, had poor ventilation, lacked a recreation area and had blocked toilets.

"Due to the extremely poor conditions, even the facility staff faced serious health problems.

"It is Suhakam's view that the poor conditions may further contribute to mental health concerns of both detainees and staff," said Razali in a statement today.

Health crises

Razali said the Suhakam delegation heard from detainees who were suffering from scabies, back and stomach pains.

"The current placement of an assistant medical officer is in our view not suitable to respond to health crises due to the number of detainees and the severity of their health problems," he said.

Razali explained that the detention centre's gazetted capacity was 350 (250 male and 100 female). However, during the visit, the Suhakam delegation noted that there were 429 detainees, of which 35 were women and 82 children.

He said that each detainee is allocated a food budget of RM6, which Suhakam believed was insufficient.

"However, Suhakam observed that the food quality and water quantity were acceptable and in line with the guidelines set by the Health Ministry.

"The kitchen and food preparation area were well maintained and found to be clean," he said.

Suhakam vows to uncover more

Razali said that Suhakam will continue to monitor and review all detention centres to ensure that universal human rights standards are afforded to detainees.

He said Suhakam also looked forward to working with the Home Ministry and civil society organisations to improve conditions at detention centres.

A month ago, Suhakam made similar conclusions after visiting the Ayer Molek police lockup in Johor.

Commissioner Jerald Joseph said that the facilities there were "unfit for humans." - Mkini