ICPA Planning and Design Network Chair Attends Prison Reform Discussions in Malaysia
____________________________________________________
The three-day event, held under Malaysia's Prison Reform Initiative, brought together European correctional experts, policymakers, and Malaysian stakeholders to develop innovative frameworks for humane, sustainable, and rights-based prison infrastructure.
Comprehensive Facility Tours Highlight Malaysian Progress
Applegate's visit began with tours of three distinct correctional facilities, each showcasing Malaysia's commitment to progressive correctional practices:
-
Sungai Udang Prison: This facility, housing 3,240 men and women, impressed visitors with its active education and training programs. Particularly noteworthy were the cooking and baking facilities supporting the broader prison population, and a mother-baby unit allowing children to remain with their mothers until age three. The prison's workshops in carpentry, metalwork, and crafts—with products sold through an external retail outlet—exemplify Malaysia's focus on vocational training.
-
Sekolah Henry Gurney: This young offender institution, operating since 1947, demonstrated the success of its revised operating model through reduced population numbers (from nearly 1,000 to just over 400) and comprehensive programming including education, arts, sports, TVET, religious instruction, and reintegration initiatives.
-
Jasin Pre-release Correctional Centre: This industry-focused facility showcased innovative agricultural programs across 20 acres, alongside community-serving enterprises like a car wash and fabric manufacturing. Its "Green Prison" zone features a therapeutic tropical garden for horticultural training and respite.
Collaborative Knowledge Exchange
"It was a privilege to participate in these discussions at such a critical juncture in Malaysia's prison reform journey," said Applegate. "The Malaysian Prison Department's openness to international best practices while honouring their cultural context demonstrates exactly the kind of thoughtful approach the Planning and Design Network advocates for."
The event featured presentations on technical and vocational education within correctional facilities, green prison initiatives, electronic security innovations, and human rights considerations—all essential elements of modern correctional design that align with ICPA's mission.
Malaysia's Bold Vision for Prison Reform
During the official opening, YB Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution bin Ismail, Minister of Home Affairs Malaysia, emphasized the country's commitment to systemic change: "When we speak of prison reform, we are not just referring to infrastructure. We are speaking of restoring dignity, renewing purpose, and rebuilding lives. Justice is most meaningful when it is just, fair, and humane."
Malaysia's comprehensive prison reform agenda includes:
-
Redesigning facilities to accommodate various inmate categories and effective rehabilitation
-
Integrating green technology and sustainable design principles
-
Leveraging AI and digital systems for enhanced security and rehabilitation
-
Expanding access to healthcare, education, and vocational training
-
Strengthening protections for vulnerable groups
ICPA Partnership: A Foundation for Global Best Practices
As members of the ICPA, the Malaysian Prison Department benefits from access to global expertise while contributing their unique perspective to the international corrections community.
"What's particularly impressive about Malaysia's approach is their commitment to both security and humanity," noted Applegate. "Their willingness to explore innovative designs that balance these priorities creates opportunities for meaningful rehabilitation while maintaining public safety."
H.E. Rafael Daerr, Ambassador of the European Union to Malaysia, described the collaboration as a "valuable opportunity to foster shared values of dignity, safety, and rehabilitation."
Looking Forward
The Planning and Design Network will continue supporting prison reform initiatives through knowledge sharing and technical expertise. The event concluded with a workshop exploring potential elements for future Malaysian facilities and identifying key follow-up activities.
"The enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated by our Malaysian colleagues give me great confidence in the future of their correctional system," Applegate concluded. "Their integration of education, training, industry partnerships, and community engagement within facility design represents correctional best practice at its finest."
Read more information about the ICPA Planning and Design Network here.