ANNUAL REPORT 2019 Throughout the study, SUHAKAM found many areas for improvement in the provision of healthcare in prisons. These improvements are not the sole responsibility of the Prisons Department. Government agencies involved should also play their part in ensuring that prisons adhere to minimum standards of detention. In this regard, SUHAKAM convened a joint meeting with the Prison Policy and PRO Division on 17 May, 2019, to discuss prison reform and the current Prisons Department’s action plan. SUHAKAM was informed that the Prisons Department was preparing several measures for prison reform. The Prisons Department welcomed SUHAKAM’s assistance for a successful implementation of the reform plan. SUHAKAM expressed its willingness to cooperate closely with the Malaysian Prisons Department on this. Action Plan The Malaysian Prisons Department action plan for prison reform will involve improvements in every aspect of its management system. The reform includes aspects of detention, rehabilitation, staff training, regulatory compliance, facilities and hygiene, community correction and the reintegration of prisoners into society. SUHAKAM fully supports the efforts of the Prisons Department for the reform of the overall prison management to ensure that prisons comply with the minimum standards of detention, such as the Nelson Mandela Rules. The problem of overcrowding caused by excess capacity in prisons should also be taken seriously by all parties seeking alternatives to accommodate existing prisoners. Besides that, existing laws that place drug addicts, undocumented migrants and those on remand in prison need reviewing. The reform also aims to help detainees go through a more effective rehabilitation process and facilitate better prison management. The framework provided focuses on 5 main functions of prison management as follows: CHAPTER 1 SUHAKAM conducted a study on “Right to Health in Prison” in 2014. This was done following complaints received by SUHAKAM in previous years. This study provided SUHAKAM with an in-depth look at prison-related health issues such as healthcare, medical services, vulnerable groups in prisons, recreation and sports, adequate food and personal care necessities, remand prisoners and prison staff. 51