Kuala lumpur: The government is reviewing a proposal by several Members of Parliament (MPs) to allow lawmakers to view closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage of the Taiping Prison incident that resulted in an inmate's death last year. Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) M. Kulasegaran expressed agreement in principle with the idea, noting that access to the footage would enable MPs to perform their oversight duties more effectively.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the proposal requires further refinement, particularly concerning legal implications such as sub judice and ongoing court cases. Kulasegaran stated that discussions with relevant parties are necessary before making a final decision. He expressed hope for a swift resolution to facilitate a better understanding of the incident's circumstances.
Media reports indicate that the incident at Taiping Prison on January 17, 2025, led to the death of an inmate and injuries to nearly 100 others amid alleged provocation. The government is also considering expanding the powers and functions of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), granting it access to detention centres without prior notice and establishing additional offices in Sabah and Sarawak, subject to financial considerations.
Meanwhile, Deputy Health Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib announced the establishment of the Institutional Health Unit on October 1, 2025, to monitor and coordinate healthcare service delivery in prisons. The Ministry of Health is formulating guidelines with the Prisons Department and increasing health worker placements in phases.
Hanifah Hajar also addressed the issue of undocumented children, affirming the Ministry of Health's commitment to providing healthcare access to all individuals, regardless of citizenship status. However, those lacking identification documents will face applicable charges.
Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Lim Hui Ying highlighted the government's aim to establish 40 additional Activity Centres for Senior Citizens (PAWEs) by 2030. The Social Welfare Department plans to establish at least 10 new PAWEs annually from 2027 to 2030 to ensure equal access, as recommended by SUHAKAM. Lim Hui Ying introduced PAWE 3A, an initiative designed to facilitate senior citizens' activities at suitable and accessible locations.
The Ministry of Human Resources and the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) also participated in the winding-up debate on the SUHAKAM Annual Report. The Dewan Rakyat passed the motion with a majority vote following the session.