KAJANG: At the age of 14 back in 2001, Murad (not his real name) was ordered by the court to be held at the pleasure of the King for a drug offence, sparing him from the gallows as a minor.

He spent the subsequent 23 years behind bars, starting with the drug rehabilitation centre under Kajang Prison, where he studied through SPM, STPM, and obtained a university degree, a Master’s degree, and finally a doctorate degree.

On 11 December, he left Kajang prison following a pardon granted by the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, in conjunction with His Royal Highness’s 79th birthday.

Murad is the first inmate who earns the PhD in business administration behind bars in Malaysia, said Kajang Prison in a Facebook post.

While serving his sentence which did not specify the number of years he had to serve until he receives a pardon, Murad spent his time studying.

For him, the indefinite years behind bars turn out to be 23 years.

He was overjoyed when Kajang Prison Director Preshahdin Monshee relayed to him the pardon in a simple ceremony before he could leave the prison a free man.

Murad is thankful to the Selangor Sultan and prison authorities for allowing him to study behind bars until he completes the PhD programme.

Preshahdin advised him to remain disciplined and apply his knowledge to extend personal growth after his release.

“The prison is always ready to assist you if you need help,” said Preshahdin.

Murad remains grateful to the prison which has provided him with assistance over the years, saying the prison plays an important role in preparing inmates for their return to society.