TAWAU: Two hundred and thirty-three Prison Department personnel received the ‘Kedaulatan Negara’ medals in recognition of their sacrifices during Ops Daulat in Lahad Datu yesterday.
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Minister II Masir Kujat in congratulating the recipients, said about 650 prison personnel would receive the recognition in stages as a special award from the government.
He said the spirit of sacrifice of the prison personnel was appreciated as they showed high morale and the willingness to sacrifice for the sake of ensuring the sovereignty, security and independence of the nation from the threat of terrorism.
Masir said it is hoped that with the award, they would be devoted to the country to provide quality services in guiding prisoners and perform prison duties.
“I believe the recognition today will be a catalyst and encourage members of this department to continue serving and rehabilitating those in the prison wall,” he said after the award ceremony at Dewan Sri Tawau, Sin Onn .
He said the role of the prison was very important in ensuring the prosperity and security of the nation. In Malaysia, the prison not only performs the function of detention but more importantly to restore and rebuild individuals who have made mistakes, to return to a better life upon their release.
For that reason, he said prison personnel needed to ensure continued harmony in prison.
“Indeed, prison guards’ responsibilities are huge, because of the transformation of the prison service, which is not only focused inside the walls, but is now extended beyond the prison walls. Nowadays the Malaysia prison detains various categories of prisoners, including prisoners under the Security Act (Special Measures) (SOSMA), POTA Act, extremist movement, radical and Daesh. Therefore we must always be ready to face a thousand possibilities,” he said.
“As we know, the prisons in Sabah also houses SOSMA prisoners from the intrusion incident in Lahad Datu and Semporna. I expect the recovery programs continue to be improved and prison security further reinforced not only for the place of detention but all the prison institutions,” he said.
Masir said because of that the Home Affairs Ministry had set seven focuses that should be given attention this year.
The outcome of the main focus is for the welfare of the people and the Outcome Strategy the Peace, Safe and Humane Environment, Reduces Repeat Offenders, Public Satisfaction and National and International Recognition. Every effort is made to ensure nothing but the welfare, prosperity and security of the country is preserved.