Image Credits: Kendari News
The Ministry of Law and Human Rights has granted remissions to 176,984 inmates and children in conflict with the law. This move is aimed at providing these individuals with an opportunity to reintegrate into society and contribute positively following their incarceration.
At a ceremony held at the ministry’s office in Jakarta on Saturday, Law and Human Rights Minister Yasonna H. Laoly announced the remission awards. The event featured symbolic presentations to four inmates from Central Jakarta’s Class 1 Prison and East Jakarta’s Class 1 Pondok Bambu Prison. Laoly emphasized the importance of these remissions, stating that they represent a chance for inmates to contribute to the community and make a fresh start.
Laoly, who has championed the rights of inmates since assuming his role, reiterated his belief that every prisoner deserves a reduction in their sentence as part of their rehabilitation process. He urged the remission recipients to embrace their newfound freedom as an opportunity to prove their worth and contribute constructively to society. “Show the nation and society that you are capable of positive change and can reintegrate as valuable members of the community,” Laoly advised.
The annual remissions, granted every August 17, align with Law Number 22 of 2022 on Corrections, which mandates such reductions as part of the broader correctional system’s reform efforts. For 2024, the breakdown includes 172,678 inmates receiving sentence reductions and 3,050 inmates being released immediately. Additionally, 1,215 children in conflict with the law received sentence reductions, with 41 granted immediate release.
The government estimates that the remissions will result in savings of approximately Rp274.3 billion (about US$17.47 million) in food costs for inmates and children. This financial relief underscores the broader impact of the remissions, highlighting both their humanitarian and economic benefits.