Azroy, Suba Vow To Turn Over A New Leaf After Prison Release

KLUANG, Nov 5 (Bernama) -- Two prospects released under the Prison Department's Licence-Based Prisoner Release Programme (PBSL) at Kluang Prison here have vowed to turn over a new leaf and avoid repeating the mistakes that landed them behind bars.

Azroy, 47, who wished to be identified only by his first name, said his imprisonment for drug abuse offences had strengthened his resolve to ensure it was his last time behind bars.

He said being away from his family during his detention had been difficult, and there were times when he cried alone while counting down the days to his release.

"I am grateful to have been informed that I would be released in conjunction with Deepavali this year, and I cannot wait to celebrate with my family, especially my five children, and become a better person.

"I was supposed to serve a six-month sentence but was released two months early after undergoing assessments and screening," he told reporters at the PBSL MADANI Yakin 'Kepulangan Yang Dinanti' programme in conjunction with Deepavali at Kluang Prison here today.

Meanwhile, a female participant, who wished to be known as Suba, 42, said she was detained nine months ago for stealing money from a shop with a friend and was originally due for release at the end of December.

She said she was surprised to learn that her release would take effect today and was excited to reunite with her family, especially as Deepavali, the biggest celebration for Hindus, falls this Sunday.

"I am so happy that I can celebrate Deepavali with my children, as I have never celebrated the festival without them. Otherwise, I would have had to spend it in prison.

"I am grateful to the government, especially the Prisons Department, for understanding people like me, and I regret my past actions that led to my imprisonment," she said.

Johor Prisons deputy director Assistant Commissioner Walace Nawon said 96 participants, comprising 92 men and four women, were released from Kluang Prison today after displaying good behaviour and passing several screening processes.

-- BERNAMA