Debating the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia’s (Suhakam) 2023 annual report in the Dewan Rakyat, Kok said poor facilities in detention centres and prisons had led to the spread of infectious diseases among inmates, detainees, and staff.
“I was shocked to read that six prisons still use the bucket system,” she said.
“This outdated sanitation method puts the health of both inmates and prison officers at risk.”
Adding that the Suhakam report found that police lock-ups in Miri and Papar were in poor and unsafe conditions, she urged the home ministry to take immediate action and find safer alternatives for both detainees and personnel at these facilities.
She also raised issues of staff shortages and overcrowding, noting that some prison blocks house over 800 inmates, overseen by only two or three wardens.
Kok said this put a severe mental strain on the officers and increased the risk of violence and abuse against inmates.
She also linked overcrowding to outbreaks of scabies, tuberculosis, and other infectious diseases.
Kok said a large portion of the prison population consisted of remand prisoners, and that overcrowding was forcing these detainees to deal with cramped and inhumane living conditions.
“Long court proceedings only worsen the situation. Many of these detainees are just stuck in cells with no activity, no progress in their cases,” she said.
She added that the frequent movement of remand prisoners to and from court had contributed to the smuggling of contraband such as phones, drugs, and tobacco.
Kok said the conditions at immigration detention centres were a clear violation of basic human rights.
“Suhakam found that detainees often go without basic hygiene supplies like soap, toothpaste, or toothbrushes. These items are only available if families can afford to bring money during visits,” she said.
She called on the home ministry to adopt Suhakam’s recommendations and ensure consistent funding to provide basic hygiene items and prevent disease outbreaks.
Kok also criticised the government’s refusal to grant the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) access to immigration depots to verify refugees’ status.
“This lack of cooperation with the UNHCR is deeply troubling. Refugees deserve proper screening and support,” she said.
Kok likewise questioned the delay in presenting the Suhakam report to Parliament.
“Why are we debating the 2023 report in July 2025? We should already be reviewing the 2024 report. This delay makes the discussion less relevant as many issues may no longer reflect current realities.”