discussions. We need to look at the issue beyond politics. A better prison would be good for society in the long run. Ms. Nurul Izzah stated that the APPGM was supposed to be led by the Head of the Dewan Negara (Senate) but then we still need approval. It is good that we are supported by the Executive of the government of the day. We hope that the idea of prison reforms can be spread with media coverage since this issue has no mileage for politicians. Attorney Kathrine C. stated that Senator de Lima mentioned that in the Philippines, on the criminalisation of prisoners, they wanted to humanise the prison system. They appreciate the efforts of political consensus by using persuasion and agreement. She suggested alliances with Executives if the parliamentarians cannot pass their private bills in the Parliament. IV. Danial, a reporter from Free Malaysia Today, queried on the comment made by Mr. Liew Chin Tong that prison reform isn’t a “sexy issue” to the Senate and how much of it is down to the mindset and stigma against people in prisons? Mr. Liew Chin Tong stated that this is partly because people think that prison has does not work, and the mentality punishment rather than rehabilitation. Attorney Katherine C. said that most people do not care because it is not their family that is involved or imprisoned. The more suffering imposed on prisoners, is seen as success of a strong government. We should look back at this mentality or is it more an issue of lack of funds, so priority goes elsewhere when deciding on budget allocations. Mr. Liew Chin Tong opines that money is spent the way it is received. More than 2/3 of death row inmates are related to drug related issues. We need to change the mind-set and the way we see the criminal justice system. Observation by APPGM - parliamentarians should consider the reintegration process for prisoners. Our policy must be that it is the governments' duty to assist the integration of prisoners. We must call upon parliamentarians to consider this matter. 66