Inmates to be trained as religious teachers upon release

SELECTED inmates at Pengkalan Chepa Prison in Kelantan will be trained to become religious teachers after their release, under a new initiative launched by Dakwah Digital Network Sdn Bhd (BeDaie) in partnership with the prison authorities.

The programme is designed to deepen inmates’ understanding of Islam, strengthen moral character and provide career pathways upon release, with the ultimate goal of enabling them to contribute meaningfully to their communities.

“We aim to train qualified inmates so that once they are released, they can serve as religious educators under BeDaie,” said the organisation’s founder, Amar Mirza Abdul Kadir Jailani.

“This not only offers them a second chance, but also helps us address the growing demand for Islamic educators, with over 120,000 students nationwide relying on our services.

“We are prepared to provide comprehensive training and viable career opportunities to qualified ex-offenders, including competitive salary packages,” he told reporters on Thursday.

As a first step in this initiative, BeDaie has donated 500 religious books to Pengkalan Chepa Prison to enhance inmates' access to valuable reading materials during their incarceration.

“The contribution is intended to support the inmates’ learning journey and personal development, offering beneficial reading materials that can serve as moral and spiritual guidance,” Amar said.

He added that BeDaie also conducts regular religious lectures in the prison, delivered by experienced preachers from the organisation.

“These sessions allow inmates to learn the fundamentals of Islam, strengthen their understanding of moral values, and deepen their spiritual knowledge – all of which are vital to the rehabilitation process.

“We see tremendous potential in inmates who are genuinely committed to change,” he added.

Amar expressed hope that the initiative would bring new light to those determined to rebuild their lives, while also enabling them to give back to society.

The religious education programme, he said, is expected to have long-term impacts, not only in shaping inmates’ character but also in improving their social reintegration prospects upon release. - Sept 4, 2025