Prison Routine

Learn about inmates' daily routines in prison, including rehabilitation programmes, recreation, learning opportunities and more.

Last updated on 18 September 2026

A photograph of inmates playing sepak-takraw during recreational yard time.

As part of their prison routine, all inmates generally have an hour of recreational time each weekday. During this time, they may take part in physical exercise and ball games in the recreational yard, or participate in other activities such as watching television programmes and playing board games.

Besides recreational time, inmates may also be scheduled for rehabilitation programmes, such as Psychology Based Correctional Programmes (PCPs) and work programmes. Additionally, inmates will also receive family visits and attend religious counselling sessions.

In evenings, inmates have access to the Digitisation of Inmate Rehabilitation and Corrections Tool (DIRECT). DIRECT is a suite of applications running on shared tablets issued to inmates to support their rehabilitation and self-directed learning.

Through DIRECT, inmates can access digital resources, such as e-letters, e-books and rehabilitation programmes through e-learning. Through e-letters, inmates can foster bonds with their loved ones, while e-learning materials enables them to learn at their own pace and take greater ownership of their rehabilitation.

An example of a daily prison routine is as follows:

Example of inmates' routine from morning to night.

Schedule	Activity
Morning	Breakfast Recreational Activities/Rehabilitation Programmes e.g. PCPs and Work Programmes etc./Religious Counselling/Family Visits
Noon-Afternoon	Lunch Recreational Activities/Rehabilitation Programmes e.g. PCPs and Work Programmes etc./Religious Counselling/Family Visits
Evening-Night	Dinner Admin Time with access to DIRECT tablets Rest