PRISON records should be kept confidential and their access restricted to third parties, especially for employment purposes, proposed the Human Resources Ministry.

Minister M. Saravanan said this is because former inmates who have applied for jobs are finding it hard to get hired after background checks reveal their prison records.

“I suggest that the data be maintained at the level of the Customs Department, Home Ministry and Royal Malaysia Police. In terms of providing access to third parties, it is not necessary if an ex-inmate applies for a job.

“Maybe this data is meant for security purposes for the Home Ministry, but there can be a solution… I will discuss this matter with minister Hamzah Zainudin.”

He said employers should provide employment opportunities to ex-convicts who have mended their ways, so they can build a new and better life and integrate into the community. – Bernama, November 17, 2021.