PADAWAN – The Licensed Prisoner Release Programme (PBSL Madani) has given a new lease of life to 55 inmates across Sarawak, enabling them to reintegrate into society with employment opportunities and family support.
Sarawak Prisons Director Deputy Commissioner Teyun Thian Eim said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to rehabilitation, offering prospects a second chance to rebuild their lives.
He explained that the programme works closely with employers to provide jobs and steady income for parolees and licensed releasees.
“There are several companies that have taken on former prospects who were released as Parolees (ODP) and Licensed Free People (OBB) and given permanent jobs like ordinary people. They have become independent, can live in society and have a regular income. Some of them are even able to help their families in the village,” he said.
The announcement was made during the PBSL Madani Yakin ‘Kepulangan Yang Dinanti’ event at Puncak Borneo Prison on Monday, held in conjunction with the Christmas season.
Of the 55 released, 12 were from Puncak Borneo Prison, nine from Sri Aman Central Prison, seven from Sibu Central Prison, 13 from Bintulu Correctional Centre, and 12 from Miri Central Prison.
Deputy Commissioner Teyun reminded the parolees to comply with all instructions and laws during their release period to avoid re-incarceration.
He noted that across Sarawak, 30 OBBs were reunited with their families, 20 were placed with employers, while five were accommodated in intermediate homes.
He further revealed that from 2020 to November 2025, a total of 3,943 individuals were released under PBSL in Sarawak, with only 198 licences cancelled, representing just 5.02 percent.
This, he said, demonstrates the programme’s effectiveness in reducing recidivism and supporting reintegration.
“The opportunity given must be used wisely. Prospects should change and return to serving their families and communities,” he urged.
The PBSL Madani initiative is part of Malaysia’s broader rehabilitation framework, which emphasises reintegration through employment, community support and structured monitoring.
By working with private companies, the programme ensures that released individuals are not only given freedom, but also the tools to sustain themselves and contribute positively to society.
Community leaders and prison officials have welcomed the programme, noting that it provides hope and dignity to those seeking to rebuild their lives after incarceration.
