PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Bar is calling for a reform to the nation's prison system, prioritising humane treatment and rehabilitation in a shift towards restorative justice.
Its president Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab said that it was not difficult to imagine that in 100 years, the society might look at the current prison system with a sense of disbelief just as how slavery is now viewed with shock and incomprehension.
He said the confinement of human beings in isolated spaces, often under conditions that fail to rehabilitate or respect basic dignity, may be seen as archaic and ineffective.
"Given these challenges, alternatives to incarceration such as restorative justice, community service programmes and rehabilitation-focused initiatives could present promising options," he said in his speech at the Opening of the Legal Year 2025 at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre here on Wednesday (Jan 8).
Citing Norway as a model example for humane treatment and rehabilitation, Ezri said such methods significantly lower recidivism rates.
"For Malaysia, the time is ripe to consider serious reforms. A shift towards restorative justice could address underlying issues that lead to crime, such as poverty, lack of education and mental health struggles.
"The Bar advocates legislative changes to promote alternative sentencing, increased investment in community-based programs and a stronger focus on rehabilitation over punishment," he said.
Ezri said the reform of prison system was not a matter of policy but rather, a matter of principle.
He also said that the Bar had oftentimes been accused of being political as some claim its statements lack neutrality, either opposing or supporting the government of the day.
"The reality, however, is far more nuanced. We are over 24,000 members strong with expertise in legal matters that we practice daily.
"Logic dictates that we are uniquely positioned to assist in shaping and advising on laws that serve society," he said.
Ezri said the opinions of the Bar were always aimed at ensuring that fairness prevails and that the rule of law was upheld.
