CELEBRATING 235 YEARS OF CORRECTIONAL HISTORY, FROM FORT CORNWALLIS TO MODERN PRISONS

By Erma Idayu Mohd Yusop

GEORGE TOWN, May 15 (Bernama) -- To enhance public understanding of the nation's correctional history and evolution, this year's 235th Prison Day celebration emphasises the establishment of Malaysia's first modern prison.

The first modern prison was set up in 1790 at Fort Cornwallis here during the British colonial era, making it significant in the history of the nation's correctional institutions.

In an exclusive interview with Bernama, Penang Prison director Abd Rauf Lang Pasif said the prison was regarded as modern for its time because of its structured and organised administrative system and that it represented a significant shift from the traditional methods of incarceration used previously.

"Historical records indicate that Malaysia's modern prison system began with the arrival of two prisoners from India. Subsequently, the prisoner population grew as inmates from Sumatra were brought in to help construct the prison and its supporting infrastructure in Penang.

"Two men, Eyeno Deen Sheikdan (also known as Ainuddin Sheidan) and Mohamed Heiant, were brought from Bengal, India, by the British for incarceration. This made them the first two prisoners in Malaysia, marking the beginning of modern prisons in the country," he said.

Abd Rauf said the prisoners were used as cheap labour to build infrastructure and support economic activities and that a second prison was later built at Chowrasta Lines.

However, he said a new facility known as Penang Gold was built and began operations in 1849 due to overcrowding, and it still exists today as the Penang Remand Prison.

"This year, Penang was selected as the host location for the 235th Prison Day celebration for several reasons. One being that the first modern prison was established in this state. Additionally, this choice aligns with our theme, "Peradaban Manusiawi Perkukuh Masyarakat MADANI."

"We are showcasing the evolution of prisons over the past 235 years to raise public awareness. This aspect makes this year's celebration unique," he said.

This year's celebration also features the Malaysian Prisons Department's 'Karnival Infokraf', which starts today and runs until this Sunday at the Esplanade, Padang Kota Lama. The carnival features a variety of handcrafted items made by inmates nationwide, including woven crafts, food products (including frozen foods), basketry, and metalwork.

Abd Rauf added that visitors will not only have the opportunity to view these products but can also purchase them at affordable prices.

The highlight of Prison Day on Saturday will be the opening ceremony by Penang Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib, and attended by Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

Abd Rauf said one of the main attractions this year is a high-tech pantomime drama segment that utilises artificial intelligence (AI) to illustrate the evolution of prison institutions from 1790 to the present day.

He said the celebration is not only about honouring history but also about demonstrating the transformation of the prison system and playing a greater role in shaping a MADANI society through a more holistic and humane approach to rehabilitation.

"Today, most prisons are equipped with modern and diverse facilities. For instance, the Seberang Perai Prison in Jawi features an electronic security system and is designed with a focus on sports. It includes various sports programmes and facilities, such as a multipurpose hall for indoor games.

"Inmates there are allowed to use the available sports facilities, and this is one of the advantages of the Seberang Perai Prison, which is also equipped with a songket weaving workshop with elements derived from the the Pearl of the Orient, as well as baking and chili sauce-making facilities," he said.

He invited the public to join in celebrating this year's Prison Day in Penang, which will feature various exhibitions and programmes throughout the carnival period.

-- BERNAMA