BY James Kon

New prison wardens were warned not to be involved in unhealthy activities such as the misuse of drugs, corruption, abuse of power and criminal acts as those violating the law are not qualified to be in a department maintaining security and providing rehabilitation programmes for inmates.

The stern warning came from Director of Prisons Department Haji Mohammed Fadzillah bin Haji Ismail in his speech as the guest of honour during the passing out parade for male and female recruits of 1/2021 intake at the Parade Ground of the Prisons Department Training Centre, Maraburong, Tutong District on Friday.

“Unhealthy activities can not only weaken the Prisons Department, but also affect the nation’s development. Action will be taken against those violating the law and will result in loss of employment,” Haji Mohammed Fadzillah said.

Therefore, he urged Prisons Department personnel to always set a best example for the younger generation of personnel, as their actions will always be exemplified.

In addition to complying with discipline, the department’s management will always be strict in maintaining the law and regulations.

The Prisons Department Director also said that opportunities to excel within the department are available for those with high spirit.

“Insya Allah, the management will always be fair and efficient in the administrative aspect as well as transparent in efforts to increase human resources capacity building. It is also important that each personnel stays committed towards the leader of the department.”

As a security agency of the government, he said, “The Prisons Department is not only seen as a place to hold inmates, but the department is more needed to provide and carry out rehabilitation programmes.

“The programmes are hoped to change the inmates’ mindset. Through this, we are confident that they can safely return to their families and be accepted by the society as independent and law-abiding citizens.”

He added, “The Prisons Department will continue to look for and study new suitable approaches with the Bruneian characteristics to rehabilitate inmates so they can build a new life when they are free.

“A strong commitment is needed from all levels of society, from the inmates to the Prisons Department officers, families and to the society.”

-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin