MELAKA: Johari (not real name), 21, could not hold back his tears as he waved goodbye to his friends at the Henry Gurney School in Telok Mas.
As some of his friends leave for their hometowns to celebrate Hari Raya, Johari is among the juvenile inmates who would be celebrating Raya at the rehabilitation centre.
Nine youths were granted release to further studies, and four others given a week's leave to return to their hometown.
“I feel happy for my friends who are able to return to their families this Raya. I could feel their joy as they were packing clothes. I helped them out to reduce my nervousness.
“Some are due to be released soon. I have to wait for a little while longer and would be released (release of prisoners on licence) on June 22,” said the Kedah-born lad who was serving an 18-year jail term for robbery.
He said he was worried about his father who was diagnosed with heart disease recently.
“I hope that I will be able to see him on the day of my release,” said the fifth of seven siblings when met during a send-off ceremony held today.
Meanwhile, Fendi (not real name), 21, said while was happy to meet his family for Raya, he too was concerned with his mother’s health condition.
“We learned that she suffered lung infection and is currently undergoing treatment. I pray that her condition improves and that we can celebrate Raya together.
“I can’t wait to board the bus to go back to Jerantut, Pahang, and meet my family. I feel happy for my friends who have family members coming to fetch them here,” said Fendi, who was serving time for drug abuse.
The release of prisoners on licence under Section 43 of the Prisons Act allows jail inmates to be released, under certain conditions, to work or further studies.
Meanwhile, temporary leave provides opportunities for them to look for jobs.
Present were State Prison Director, Prison Commissioner Abdul Aziz Mohamad, Prison Management deputy director, Prison Deputy Commissioner S. Kausalya Devi and Henry Gurney School director, Assistant Prison Commissioner Abd Rahman Taib.
Get the latest World Cup 2018 scores, highlights and updates from our dedicated news page. Click here
