SUNGAI PETANI: Religious boarding schools, also known as ‘sekolah pondok’, can be strategic partners in helping the Home Ministry and police curb religious extremism and strengthen understanding of Islam, says Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail (pic).
The Home Minister said the government could leverage the institution’s strengths because of its role as a bastion of faith for the Muslim community since colonial times, which it continues to play today.
"I see opportunities for the ministry and police to engage and collaborate with them.
"Many of their ideas can help clarify the current situation in our society, particularly in fostering understanding between Muslims and non-Muslims, strengthening relationships within the Muslim community, and enhancing interactions between Muslims and non-Muslims," he said.
He said this while delivering a speech at the Fostering of Noble Values with the Home Minister and the Malaysian Prisons Department event here on Sunday (March 9).
Saifuddin Nasution added that these schools also play a role in addressing 3R issues (religion, race, royalty), which are often excessively politicised on social media, leading to tension and concern among the public.
"I am confident that if the Home Ministry and police can engage, listen, interact and involve the ‘pondok’ institution in this effort, it will bring significant benefit," he said.
Meanwhile, he said the ministry is enhancing the implementation of alternative sentencing to tackle overcrowding in prisons nationwide.
He noted that although the prison occupancy rate is still within international standards, the current inmate population of 80,000 exceeds the actual capacity of 72,000.
"To address this issue, we are implementing alternative sentencing options such as the parole system, licensed release, compulsory attendance order, home detention, and using electronic monitoring devices.
"This move aims to prevent overcrowded prisons, which can affect living conditions, create health issues, increase the risk of conflicts and put pressure on prison wardens," he added. - Bernama
