The chief monk, San Ly, said that under a new program monks will visit the prison regularly to reach the prisoners on a spiritual level, develop their understanding of their misdeeds and encourage good deeds instead.

The monks will preach Buddhist principles and pray with the prisoners. “Our mind is a hot ball – it is very flammable; anger will lead us to commit crimes, so we have to calm our minds.

Then, we will be happy and free,” said Ly. He added that the program also promotes the spread of Buddhism in Cambodia.

Prison officials said that meeting with the monks at least once a month will be mandatory for all inmates.