KUALA LUMPUR: A systematic and rational approach is needed to develop a clear understanding of repeat offenders and their recidivism rates, an expert said.

Criminologist Datuk Dr P. Sundramoorthy from Universiti Sains Malaysia said it was critical that the concept of recidivism be redefined and factually operationalised to reduce the number of such offenders.

“Transition programmes from prison to society require strategic system changes to reduce recidivism and future victimisation.

“Therefore, the government needs a systematic and rational planning process to carefully define goals, develop a clear understanding of reentering of offenders, their rates of recidivism and review existing policies, procedures and resources for reentry.

“This could enhance public safety and improve the lives of communities, victims and offenders,” he told the New Straits Times.

He lauded the government’s plans to introduce the KEMBALI programme, which would provide inmates with skills training and encouragement to help them get a second chance in life.

He said it was crucial that the government provided adequate funding for prison programmes, as well as training and upgrading of existing prison facilities.

“Their (BN) intention is noble and it is a good effort to improve the prison system. However, RM10 million is loose change for a prison programme.

“Involve non-correctional stakeholders (public, private and community agencies) who can provide services, support and partnership as reentry efforts are planned and implemented.”

On Nov 7, Barisan Nasional announced its election manifesto, Pelancaran Pelan Amal dan Usaha and KEMBALI to help them reintegrate into society.

Its chairman, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, said the coalition vowed to inject RM10 million towards a prison-agro scheme.

At the same time, Sundramoorthy said a systematic probation department should be established in the criminal justice
system to distinguish the severity of offences.

“The only type of probation that we have is ‘juvenile’, which is under the supervision of the Welfare Department. It is not a formalised probation department.

“Non-violent and non-serious offenders could go under this (probation) department and do community service (instead) unless they committed serious offences.

“This is because we should not be sending people to prison for minor offences, such as shoplifting or underage mat rempit who steal motorbikes for a joy ride,” he said, adding that the probation department must be independent of the prison system.

He also said the system needed to develop the capacity to measure change toward specific outcomes and track information that could be used for planning future improvements.

“This includes expanding the traditional roles of correctional staff beyond custody, security, accountability and monitoring to include an integrated approach to offender management that engages them in the process of change.

“We must make sure that transitioning offenders are provided with basic survival resources, such as identification documents, housing, appropriate medications, linkages to community services and informal networks of support before, during, and after they are released from prison.”

This article first appeared on New Straits Times.