Breaking free from the past: Mohamad Ismail (right) looking on as a parolee performs her tasks at Changhuat Plastic Industries Sdn Bhd in Senai, Kulai. — THOMAS YONG/The Star
KULAI: When Tina (not her real name) was slapped with a nine-month jail sentence for drug possession last year, she thought that was the end of her future.
Towards the end of her sentence at Kluang Prison, the 29-year-old was called out by one of the prison guards and given the good news that she was one of those selected for a corporate smart internship programme.
Under the programme, selected parolees are given job opportunities in the open market.
“I burst into tears on the spot upon receiving the news. I thought I could never have a normal life and job again after going to prison for my mistakes,” she said when interviewed at a plastics manufacturing plant in Senai here.
Tina was among 18 female parolees who have been successfully placed at Changhuat Plastic Industries Sdn Bhd from July this year.
She said she started her new job as an operator at the factory and continued working there even though her prison sentence ended on Aug 23.
“I am beyond grateful for this opportunity to lead a normal life again despite my conviction.
“While working at the factory, I learned new skills and also how to improve my discipline, sense of responsibility and commitment to the job,” she said, adding that she stays at a hostel nearby provided by the company.
Another parolee, only known as Syah, 38, said she was initially concerned that she would face discrimination from other employees at the workplace.
Syah, who was sentenced to two years’ jail for drug possession, was released on parole on July 15 and began working at the factory as a product checker.
“Thankfully, my colleagues and employer have been friendly and accepted me even though I have a ‘black mark’ in my past.
“With their support and guidance, I am determined to work hard and remain on the right path.
“I cherish this opportunity very much because as convicts, we may not get employment with a stable pay or be eligible for employee insurance benefits even after serving our sentence in full,” she added.
The factory’s project development senior manager Kevin Tan said the company aims to hire 50 parolees by November as part of its no-discrimination policy.
“There are currently 18 female parolees in their 20s to 40s working at our plant, which produces plastic products for sports equipment, household appliances and automotive parts.
“The parolees under our employ are also given the same training and job advancement opportunities in our efforts to uphold our environment, social and governance (ESG) framework,” he added.
Johor Prisons Department director Deputy Comm of Prisons Mohamad Ismail, said it has partnered with more than 20 companies in the state to provide parolees with job opportunities in various industries such as services and food production.
“This programme is also in line with the department’s aim for two out of three parolees to return to society and get proper jobs,” he said, adding that only low-risk convicts with minor offences are selected for the initiative.
The parolees are also monitored by their parole officers and required to undergo regular urine tests.
