Correctional programmes one way to avoid overcrowded prisons

PETALING JAYA: Prison overcrowding can be avoided if first-time and light offenders such as drug addicts are sent for community-based correctional programmes instead of being incarcerated, says one expert.

Criminologist Datuk Dr P. Sundramoorthy of Universiti Sains Malaysia’s Centre for Policy Research said the issue of congested jails is not only faced by Malaysia but by other countries worldwide as well.