TAPAH - Being behind bars has transformed inmates, guiding them to make the Quran a way of life and bringing them closer to Allah S.W.T.
This sentiment was expressed by the female champion in the memorisation category at the Islamic Arts Ihtifal Ceremony for Quran Memorisation and Marhaban Competition at the Malaysian Prisons Department level.
Syafikah, 32, (not her real name) said that spiritual and Islamic activities provided her with much guidance to build self-identity and change society's perception of her.
"Alhamdulillah, in the past, I might have been negligent and taken religion lightly. Being in prison has taught me the meaning of repentance, self-evaluation and knowing the difference between right and wrong.
"The Quran is a form of therapy and improves one's way of life from bad to better," said Syafikah, who represented Kajang Prison when met at Dewan Dato' Yassin, Tapah Prison, recently.
Another participant, Faris, 20, (not his real name) representing Henry Gurney School, said that delving into the Quran, especially in terms of memorisation, has greatly disciplined him in his daily life.
"It can be quite challenging to memorise because some friends like to tease. But I remained steadfast and frequently met with the ustaz here to improve my recitation.
"Alhamdulillah, I was fortunate to win in this competition," said Faris, who emerged as the champion in the Male Category Level 3 Memorisation.
Meanwhile, Prisons Deputy Commissioner-General (Security and Correctional) Datuk Abdul Aziz Abdul Razak said that 128 inmates from 26 institutions, including Sabah and Sarawak, participated in the event.
He said that organising such programmes could demonstrate to the public that inmates have the space and opportunity to showcase their talents, particularly in spiritually and artistically based Islamic activities.
"This programme features two events: Quran Memorisation Test, divided into three levels, and the Marhaban competition.
"In addition to providing the inmates with the space and opportunity to showcase their talents in Islamic activities, the programme can enhance their skills and confidence to face society," he said at a press conference here today.
Earlier, he also officiated the event, which was held for four days starting from July 1 to 4, and attended by Orang Besar Jajahan Batang Padang Datuk Mat Rasid Ayob. - BERNAMA