SIBU: The implementation of the parole system in Sarawak prisons since 2008 had benefitted 210 prisoners, said state prison department director Mohd Zawawi Ab Rahim.

He said the system had proven to be successful and there was no relapse among parolees.

"They are now very self-reliant," he told reporters after officiating the department's state-level 'Innovative and Creative Group' convention here today.

He said there were 28 parolees statewide now, of which 10 were from Kuching, seven each from Sibu and Miri and four in Bintulu.

Mohd Zawawi said the system was introduced by the government to speed up prisoner rehabilitation into society.

"It is only offered to those who committed light offences and received light sentences. "They are also those considered posing the least risk to society," he added.

Meanwhile in his speech earlier, he said the prison for Bintulu town would be ready by next year. It would be the sixth in the state, he said.