Minister visits young inmates

Multa Fidrus , The Jakarta Post , Tangerang | Mon, 09/22/2008 12:38 PM | City

TV presenter Dewi Hughes (holding a microphone) led a discussion Friday between State Minister for Women's Empowerment Meutia Hatta and 300 inmates at the Tangerang Juvenile Penitentiary during an event to break the fast.

"Ibu Meutia is with you today because she cares about all of you. Don't worry, she wants to share stories about a difficult period in her childhood and listen to how you feel about being in prison and what you want to do after you leave. She will do her best to help you all," Hughes told the inmates.

"You have to look at the penitentiary as your temporary home. Look at it as a place where you can study and learn various skills. You have everything you need to support your future here."

During the visit, the minister distributed souvenirs for the juveniles including books, equipment for futsal, koko (tradition shirts worn by Muslim men) and mukena (prayer robes).

"We're away from our parents. We still want to go to school and study," Pindrewila, a female inmate from Ambon, told the minister.

"We've gotten everything we need for a better future here, but our friends who left this place complain because it's difficult for them to get a certificate of good conduct from the police. Can you help us fight for our rights?" Abdulrokhin, another child inmate, said.

"I will send a request letter soon to the National Police Chief concerning your rights," Meutia said.

Doni, an inmate, asked the minister to provide remission to all inmates serving their jail term on National Children's Day.

According to Meutia, the government has drafted a bill on remissions on National Children's Day for child inmates.

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