Task force proposes 13 preventive measures to address deaths in custody

A SPECIAL task force formed to implement recommendations by the Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission has proposed 13 preventive measures aimed at addressing deaths in custody, marking a significant step towards reforming the management and oversight of detention facilities in Malaysia.

The draft memorandum was submitted to the Prime Minister’s Department after an in-depth review by the task force of the recommendations contained in the EAIC Review Committee Report.

The report had earlier been presented to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during a meeting of the National Governance Special Cabinet Committee on May 7, 2024.

According to the memorandum, the task force comprises 19 members representing 13 ministries, departments and agencies, including the EAIC.

All members have provided detailed feedback and, in principle, expressed agreement with the recommendations outlined in the report.

“The main focus of the memorandum is to seek Cabinet approval for the implementation of 13 preventive measures identified for adoption by all enforcement agencies involved in the management of detainees, particularly the Immigration Department of Malaysia, the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, the National Anti-Drugs Agency and the Royal Malaysia Police,” the EAIC said in a statement today.

The EAIC said the measures are intended to improve the governance of police lock-ups, immigration depots and detention centres, while addressing systemic weaknesses identified as contributing factors to deaths in custody.

“However, all recommendations submitted through the memorandum will involve financial and legal implications that will be examined and refined separately, making the Cabinet’s decision the key determinant of whether the 13 preventive measures can be implemented comprehensively and effectively,” the statement said.

The EAIC expressed hope that the report would not only assist the government in strengthening existing policies, but also contribute to the formulation of better new policies by identifying systemic weaknesses linked to deaths in custody and by enhancing inter-agency cooperation to safeguard human rights.

“The submission of this draft Cabinet memorandum reflects the continued commitment of the EAIC and all involved agencies to ensuring that governance of detention centres in Malaysia is strengthened,” the statement added. - January 14, 2026