KUALA LUMPUR, April 11 — Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi urged Malaysians to set aside their prejudices against ex-convicts, noting that recent statistics show most among them turn over a new leaf after serving time.

Quoting the Home Minister, English daily The Star reported today that the “recidivism” rate (habitual relapse into crime) among former criminals was just 7.6 per cent last year, a marked improvement from the 16.5 per cent recorded in 2000.

According to Zahid, many former prison inmates improve themselves through education.

“Over 1, 000 are studying for diplomas, hundreds are pursuing degrees and some are completing their graduates studies or PhDs. Employers should also give them opportunities,” he was quoted saying in a television programme on prison life aired yesterday.

“They have gone rehabilitation and have received religious education while in prison. Most want a fresh start in life.”