GEORGE TOWN: The death of his mother while he was serving time in prison is one thing Amy regrets most.
Amy (not his real name), 25, who was imprisoned at the Penang Prison in May this year for a drug-related offence, is one of 11 prisoners released under the Licensed Prisoner Release (OBB) programme.
Amy, released as part of the prisoners on licence (PBSL) Ihsan Madani initiative, said he was told through a video call from a family member when his mum passed away in August.
"I really regretted at that time, but there was nothing I could do except to accept what had happened.
"I am determined not to repeat my old mistakes (drug-related mistakes) and want to take care of my father who is bedridden due to a stroke with my younger brother after this," he said when met at the Penang Prison Club Hall here today.
He was invited by his sister before returning to their family home in Permatang Pauh.
He was initially slated to be released from prison on Jan 9, next year.
Amy said he was grateful to be released earlier and planned to marry his fiancee next year.
"I am very grateful to my family and fiancee who are never tired of giving me another opportunity and supporting me.
"In fact, my fiancee was also here earlier but had to leave early due to work," he added.
Amy said he would be working in Batu Kawan as a landscape worker after this.
"While I was serving my sentence in prison, programmes such as religious talks, motivation and so on really helped me," he said.
Meanwhile, Penang Prison's deputy superintendent Awang Azizan Hasbi said from January until December this year, a total of 149 prisoners were released through the PBSL programme.
"We hope that all those released appreciate this opportunity as much as possible and build a new life without repeating old mistakes," he said.
