The Malaysian Prisons Department has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on corruption, pledging full cooperation with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) following the arrest of several personnel attached to Bintulu Prison.
In a statement issued today, the department said it takes the allegations seriously and will facilitate investigations without reservation. It stressed that internal action will be pursued against any officer found culpable once the legal process concludes.
The department underscored its respect for due process, adding that no individual would be shielded if wrongdoing is proven. Disciplinary measures, it said, will be determined based on investigation outcomes and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Reaffirming its institutional principles, the Prisons Department said it remains committed to integrity, professionalism and sound governance, noting that public trust in correctional institutions must be safeguarded at all times. Maintaining ethical standards within enforcement agencies, it added, is essential to ensuring the credibility of the justice system.
The clarification follows media reports on a MACC operation at the Bintulu facility and the subsequent remand of enforcement personnel yesterday. The department also urged the public to refrain from speculation so as not to impede ongoing inquiries.
Earlier reports said 11 enforcement agency staff in Bintulu, Sarawak, were remanded for between three and five days to assist investigations into alleged bribes amounting to RM239,000. The suspects, aged 20 to 40, are believed to have received payments from inmates’ family members between 2020 and 2025 in return for ensuring safety and facilitating matters related to inmates within the prison.
The department added that cooperation with investigators reflects its broader responsibility to uphold accountability across the public service, stressing that misconduct—if established—will be addressed decisively to preserve institutional integrity.
