Female ex-convicts get funds to start businesses

MATARAM: West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) administration has given 25 female ex-convicts grants of Rp 8 million each to start up businesses.

The money was provided by the social rehabilitation directorate general at the Social Services Ministry.

The aid program, the first of its kind in NTB, is a pilot project for the rehabilitation for ex-convicts who have completed their prison sentences.

The Caucus Concerned with Women (KPP), a local NGO monitoring the implementation of the project, said Friday the funds had been distributed in stages since last November.

With this new assistance, former inmates could start new lives by opening businesses like shops, beauty salons and food stalls, KPP leader Mardiana told The Jakarta Post in Mataram. - JP