THE RIGHT TO HEALTH IN PRISON: RESULTS OF A NATIONWIDE SURVEY AND REPORT 3.36 Among those who answered the question on the mental health symptoms experienced, 21 per cent (1,141 prisoners) stated that stress was the dominating factor while 13 per cent (721 prisoners) stated that sleep disorder was a contributing factor. In this regard, 33 per cent (1,799 prisoners) stated that they would inform the prison authorities if they experienced mental health symptoms while 11 per cent (583 prisoners) stated that they would not take any action. 3.37 Of note, 60 per cent (3,236 prisoners) reported that they would inform other prisoners in their cell if they experienced any mental health symptoms because fellow prisoners were more understanding.70 3.38 In this regard, the Commission takes note of the feedback71 from the Prisons Department of Malaysia: “Upon admission, all prisoners are required and it is compulsory to undergo a psychology test. Three months after admission, they undergo a depression test after which will be done periodically. The score / results of the test will be brought to the attention of the medical officer for assessment who will determine the next course of action either observation or treatment by him or to be referred for psychiatric treatment in government hospitals”. 3.39 However, the Commission advises that the intake mental health screening should take place within 24 hours to seven days of admission to prison and consist of a detailed, thorough, and structured mental health examination that is performed by a qualified mental health care professional. Outdoor Activities (Q: 3072) 3.40 While the United Nations Human Rights Council recommended a minimum of one hour of daily outdoor exercise for prisoners,73 the Commission’s survey showed that only 21 per cent (946 prisoners) reported having a minimum of three hours of outdoor activity per week, 42 per cent (2191 prisoners) were allowed approximately 1-2 hours per week while 15 per cent (797 prisoners) reported not being offered any kind of outdoor activity. Women and prisoners on remand were seen to be less likely to be offered any form of outdoor activity compared to men and convicted prisoners. (Tables 11 and 12). In question 29, respondents were asked about the action taken if they experienced mental health symptoms. Feedback received on 8 April 2016. In question 30, respondents were asked about the average that was allowed for outdoor activities in a week. Answer choices were either less than 1 hour, 1-2 hours, above 3 hours or no outdoor activity. 73 United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners: Exercise and sport- 21. (1) Every prisoner who is not employed in outdoor work shall have at least one hour of suitable exercise in the open air daily if the weather permits. 70 71 72 45