SEPANG, March 25 — Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations this year are described as more meaningful as families of residents at the Sepang Residents’ Reintegration Centre (PRP) were given the opportunity to meet face-to-face.
For Siti (not her real name), 63, she was overjoyed to celebrate Hari Raya with her son-in-law, Shah (not his real name), for the first time without any barriers such as walls or iron screens.
“Before coming here, I felt extremely excited and happy, as it had been a long time since we last celebrated together. I already regard him as my own child, not just a son-in-law.
“However, I was unable to bring any festive dishes. When he is released this May, I will cook his favourite beef rendang,” she told Media Selangor.
Earlier, Siti, a retired teacher, attended the PRP Sepang Hari Raya Celebration with Family programme yesterday, accompanied by her grandchild.
Meanwhile, Person Under Supervision (ODS) Shah, 41, described this Syawal as more special with the presence of Siti and his 12-year-old only child, who travelled from Ampang to the centre.
“Previously, I spent four years celebrating Hari Raya at the Sungai Buloh Prison. The conditions there were stricter.
"So when I was transferred here, I was grateful to be able to celebrate with my family,” he said.
For ODS Hafiz (not his real name), 34, he intends to seek forgiveness from his parents and wife once they arrive at the PRP Sepang from Temerloh, Pahang.
He admitted he could not hide his nervousness upon being informed about the celebration programme, and is determined to make the most of the opportunity.
“I do feel nervous. But I want to apologise and promise not to repeat my mistakes.
"I also hope my family will give me a second chance,” said Hafiz, who is serving a sentence for drug distribution.
The PRP Sepang, located in Kampung Ulu Teris, is a final-phase rehabilitation centre under the Prison Department, housing 457 residents serving remaining sentences of three years or less.
All ODS are equipped with various skills such as agriculture, sewing and cooking, as well as opportunities to serve within the community and work with industry partners.
