The Malaysian Prisons Department has confirmed criminal charges against one of its officers under Section 304(b) of the Penal Code following an incident at Taiping Prison on January 17, 2025. The death of detainee Gan Chin Eng occurred during an inmate transfer operation from Hall B to Block E.
An independent investigation conducted by the Royal Malaysia Police has also recommended disciplinary action against five additional prison staff members. In a statement, the department emphasised its zero-tolerance approach to misconduct and its commitment to holding personnel accountable regardless of rank or seniority.
The Prisons Department stated that it respects the ongoing legal proceedings and will not interfere with the investigation process. This action follows the release of the Human Rights Commission (SUHAKAM) Public Inquiry Report, which examined the circumstances surrounding the incident.
SUHAKAM's inquiry panel has recommended that Taiping Prison, now 146 years old and designated as a National Heritage Building, be converted into a museum, deeming it unsuitable for continued correctional facility operations. The panel highlighted concerns about the facility's ability to maintain adequate standards.
In response to the report, the Ministry of Home Affairs through the Prisons Department has committed to accelerating prison infrastructure modernisation efforts. Plans include constructing new facilities to replace Taiping Prison, with improved design prioritising safety, efficiency, and the wellbeing of both detainees and staff.
