Remission Strengthens Spirit of Change Among Prisoners in West Java
West Java DPRD member Sidkon Djampi has expressed appreciation for the granting of general remission to inmates at Banceuy Class IIA Prison in Bandung, held recently to mark the 81st anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia.
Sidkon said remission is not merely a reduction of prison sentences, but also a form of appreciation for the rehabilitation process that inmates have undergone. He expressed hope that this moment would encourage them to improve themselves before returning to society.
“I appreciate the granting of remission this year, which was quite substantial in number. Most of the recipients are residents of West Java themselves,” said Sidkon.
According to him, remission must serve as motivation for inmates to enhance their self-reliance and refrain from committing further criminal acts. After completing their rehabilitation period, they are expected to contribute positively to their communities and the region.
“They have hope to serve West Java better, to be more introspective, more independent, more progressive, and not to repeat what they did before as criminal acts,” he said.
Sidkon also highlighted the importance of strengthening inter-agency synergy in supporting inmate rehabilitation. He said the correctional process cannot be left to a single institution alone, but requires support from various parties.
He said this synergy encompasses the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections and its regional offices, the West Java DPRD, and the West Java Provincial Government.
“This is inter-agency synergy. The Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, its regional office, us as the Council, and the West Java Provincial Government which holds the budget. Whatever needs exist here that can be provided by West Java Province, we must back them up,” he explained.
As a legislative body, Sidkon affirmed that the West Java DPRD has a role in promoting policies and budgetary support that can meet the needs of correctional institutions and the rehabilitation process for inmates.
“As legislators, we must push, back up, and approve, so that it becomes policy of the West Java Provincial Government. Synergy is important,” he said.
He also welcomed the presence of government officials at the event. According to Sidkon, the involvement of various parties demonstrates a shared commitment to strengthening services and rehabilitation.
“I only just found out, when I came here, the Deputy Governor also came here. This is a good sign for synergy,” he concluded.
Sidkon expressed hope that inter-agency collaboration will continue to be strengthened so that inmate rehabilitation runs optimally. In this way, they will not only complete their sentences, but also gain skills, self-reliance, and awareness to become productive members of society once again.