Prisoner pens letter to mum, seeking forgiveness, acknowledging past mistakes
POKOK SENA - A 22-year-old prisoner penned a heart-wrenching letter to his mother, asking for forgiveness for not being able to celebrate Raya with her, and acknowledging his past mistakes.
"Amir wishes mom and all family members a joyful Hari Raya Aidilfitri, hoping this Raya will be meaningful for you.
"I am seeking your forgiveness, mom. Each time I pray, I pray for your health and that all your affairs are eased," shared Amir, 22, in the Raya greetings card written for his mother.
Amir, who was serving his prison sentence at Pokok Sena Prison for drug-related offences did not expect to be released early to celebrate Raya with his beloved mother.
"I was supposed to be released on May 8 so I did not expect this and I am so grateful as I know I was suppose to be released much later.
"I want to ask for my mother's forgiveness," he said when met by reporters at Ihsan Madani Licensed Prisoner Release (OBB) programme to celebrate the coming Raya at Pokok Sena Prison, here, today.
Amir, the second child out of three siblings, considers the release as an Aidilfitri gift, ahead of Raya on April 21 or 22.
The restaurant worker expressed how he gained religious knowledge during his several months stay in Pokok Sena Prison, learning about prayer and fardhu ain. He now feels equipped to practice these teachings in his daily life
An older male inmate released through the programme, Din, 62, said he plans to celebrate the festive month with his grandchildren in Kuala Kedah after losing his wife in 2021.
Having celebrated Raya in prison from 2008 to 2010, this year's celebration holds a special meaning for him.
Father of four children, aged between 17 to 37 years old, expressed surprise and excitement upon being informed of his early release.
He hopes that this would be his last sentence and is eager to reunite with his two grandchildren, aged seven and nine years old.
After serving 13 prison sentences for drug-related offences, the man said he has repented and has a desire to start anew in Perak.
"Hopefully, I can work properly and be able to return to the sea," said the former fisherman.
Another prisoner, Shah, 21, eagerly looks forward to reuniting with his family members after being released for Raya celebrations.
As the fourth child of six siblings, he expressed gratitude and happiness for this opportunity to celebrate Syawal with his loved ones.
"What I miss most is to visiting relatives' houses as a family. I am so happy I can experience it again," he said.
Shah, who served a nine-month prison sentence, expressed surprise upon being informed of his early release, not expecting to be able to celebrate Raya with his family this year,
Pokok Sena Prison deputy director S Tanabal explains that 14 prisoners were released on license after fulfilling the set conditions, which include undergoing psychological tests, having the financial means for travel and, most importantly, gaining acceptance from their families for their return to their homes or hometowns.
He said the license release was aimed to allow prisoners serving short sentences of less than a year, who meet the necessary conditions, to celebrate Raya with their families.
He also advised the released prisoners to adhere to the set conditions, such as staying within their district and refraining from engaging in illegal activities such as drug use and prostitution.
