JOHOR BARU: Johor's 141-year-old Ayer Molek Prison, which now lies in a derelict state, should be given a new lease of life befitting its historic status.
A historian said greater care can be accorded to the building, which if done right, could help Johor's tourism industry.
Johor-based Mohd Azlan Mohd Sharif said the sprawling prison compound held massive tourism and commercial potential.
He said instead of leaving the buildings to decay, they could be transformed into either a cultural centre or even a location to be used by the state's National Archives Department.
"Kota Jail, as Ayer Molek Prison is known among locals, is unique given its rich history.
"Transforming it into a place where Johor's records are archived would make it easier for the public to access them, as well as serve as a fitting tribute to its role in history.
"Given its size, some parts of the old prison can also be transformed into a cultural centre," he told the New Straits Times.
Azlan cited several successful examples of prisons worldwide, which had undergone a transformation to become cultural hubs.
He said one of the best examples was the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, the United States.
The prison used to house Al Capone — one of the most notorious gangsters and crime bosses in American history.
"The Eastern State Penitentiary was transformed from a prison into a museum and cultural site, which offers guided tours, art installations and events.
"It is also transformed into a haunted house every Halloween," he said.
"This offers visitors a chance to explore both the historical and cultural significance of the site," he added.