BY EDWINNIE EINSTEIN UNJI
PADAWAN: The Licensed Prisoner Release Programme (PBSL) has become a beacon of hope and opportunity for former inmates, empowering them to positively transform their lives and provide for their families after being incarcerated.
The nationwide programme was held today (April 4) as a means for rehabilitated individuals to reunite with their families and reintegrate into society through employment opportunities.
Former inmates openly shared their personal stories of incarceration, along with their aspirations and visions for a renewed life upon release.
In an interview with the New Sarawak Tribune, a former inmate identified as Jas, 31, reflected on how prison life profoundly changed her worldview and reshaped her attitude.
“Before this, I had uncontrollable anger issues, but being here resolved them and completely transformed me,” Jas said during the interview.
Jas expressed a strong determination to distance herself from influences and associates that led to her arrest.
She intends to secure employment that will steer her clear of any potential conflicts or issues that could jeopardize her fresh start.
She later mentioned that life in prison taught her to reconnect with her faith.
“Previously, I hadn’t explored my faith, never practiced ‘solat,’ or grasped its essence. But within these walls, Alhamdulillah, I’ve rediscovered my spiritual path,” Jas shared emotionally.
Another former inmate, known only as Commando, 53, shared his story of life inside and his hopes for the future.
“I am a changed man now, from A to Z. This place is not just for prisoners and inmates; it’s also a place of rehabilitation for us,” Commando told the New Sarawak Tribune.
He further expressed his aspirations for life after release, eagerly anticipating the joy of celebrating Raya with his family and dedicating himself to nurturing family bonds that were strained during his absence.
“This Raya, I want to taste the ‘lemang’ and ‘rendang’ while being with my family,” Commando added.
After the programme, Commando became a free man and expressed his gratitude to those who organized the programme.
“I would like to express my thanks to those in charge of this prison and to those who organized this programme for us to meet our families during Raya celebrations,” he said.
For the record, the PBSL at Puncak Borneo Prison has the compassionate objective of reuniting 30 inmates with their loved ones, fostering hope, facilitating the joy of reconnection, and generating sufficient income for themselves.
Present during the programme were Director of Sarawak State Prison, Deputy Commissioner of Prisons Teyun Tian Eim, and other honorable guests and families.
