Sungai Petani: Investigations are ongoing into the death of a Taiping Prison inmate last month, allegedly due to assault, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said today. He stated that police have opened an investigation file and are conducting a thorough probe. “This process includes taking statements from everyone involved, whether inmates or prison officers (wardens) on duty on the day (Jan 17) of the incident. This investigation process is ongoing,” he told reporters.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saifuddin Nasution made these remarks after attending the Inmates’ Thaipusam Meet-and-Greet Event and during a working visit to Sungai Petani Prison. He mentioned that the Parliamentary Special Select Committee has also called upon the Home Ministry to receive feedback regarding the Taiping incident.

The Home Minister further disclosed that the Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) chairman, Datuk Seri Mohd Hishamudin Md Yunus, reached out to express his intention to meet with the involved parties. Saifuddin assured that full cooperation would be provided, but stressed that the process must be orderly and phased. He emphasized the importance of the Prisons Department fulfilling its responsibilities effectively and cooperating fully with all stakeholders during the investigation.

Earlier, Perak acting police chief DCP Zulkafli Sariaat confirmed that a report concerning the inmate’s death was received on Jan 17, and an investigation paper has been opened under Section 302 of the Penal Code.

Meanwhile, at today’s ceremony, 102 inmates had the opportunity to greet their visiting families, who traveled from Penang, Pahang, and Kuala Ketil. Saifuddin Nasution noted that such programs can serve as motivation for other inmates by demonstrating that good behavior is rewarded, thus encouraging them to reform.