We refer to the letter “Identify effective programmes that can help Malay community” (Feb 7) by Mr Osman V.P. Mohamed.
Indeed, more programmes and partners are needed in our work to prevent offending and re-offending. In 2021, the Ministry of Home Affairs set up the Malay/Muslim Organisations (MMO) Rehabilitation Network to provide more focused and holistic support to Malay/Muslim inmates, former offenders, and their families. The network includes government agencies, social service agencies, M3@Towns (a volunteer platform set up by Muis, Mendaki and Mesra to uplift the Malay/Muslim community) and mosques.
In May 2023, the network launched its inaugural workplan. Our priorities include building connections across the network, enhancing the capabilities of individual member organisations, and developing programmes to amplify our reach and impact.
The MMO Rehabilitation Network Conference held on Jan 25 was another milestone. More than 20 organisations, including those outside the network, shared their experiences and best practices working with their beneficiaries. The feedback we received from participants was overwhelmingly positive.
We will build on the momentum of that conference. Among others, we will work with the Community Action for the Rehabilitation of Ex-Offenders Network and leverage its aftercare initiatives to better support former Malay/Muslim offenders.
As Law and Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam pointed out at the conference, the community has made tremendous progress. But there is still work to be done. We thank those who have joined the MMO network, and welcome Mr Osman and others like him, who are passionate about this meaningful cause, to join us.
There is a Malay saying, “Sedikit, sedikit, lama lama jadi bukit”, which means “Little by little, it will eventually become a hill”. It reminds us that with perseverance, we can achieve big things.
Sanjay Nanwani
Senior Director, Policy Development Division
Ministry of Home Affairs
