Assimilation program for prisoners

Assimilation program for prisoners

BENGKULU: Beginning next year, the Bengkulu penitentiary, in
central Sumatra will involve selected prisoners in agricultural
activities with local residents as part of its assimilation
program.

Firma Uli Silalahi, head of the Bengkulu prison, said on
Sunday that such a problem would be more effective in guiding
prisoners rather than educating them inside the jail.

The assimilation scheme had been designed several years ago,
but was then delayed as residents opposed it for unclear reasons.

"I tried to spearhead such a program, but it immediately
received criticism from locals after it started. This time, the
pattern of the assimilation will be carried out through a farming
program."

He said those eligible to take part in the program were
prisoners with good records of conduct and those who have served
at least half of their jail terms. --Antara