Rieke Diah Pitaloka Appreciates Ministry of Immigration and Correctional Programmes for Inmates During Karawang Prison Visit
Rieke Diah Pitaloka, a member of Commission XIII of the House of Representatives (DPR), has expressed her appreciation for the various innovative rehabilitation programmes implemented at the Karawang Class IIA Prison. She noted that high-quality services for inmates must go hand-in-hand with training programmes capable of fostering independence while simultaneously supporting national food security.
Accompanied by the Head of Karawang Class IIA Prison, Ma’ruf Prasetyo, and his staff, Rieke inspected various correctional services, including food provision, healthcare services, and various training programmes. Her inspection included visits to the prison kitchens, health clinics, and areas dedicated to agriculture, livestock, and fisheries managed by the inmates.
During the visit, Rieke emphasised that fulfilling the rights of inmates is a state obligation. Consequently, quality services must be supported by adequate human resources, particularly medical personnel. “The rights of inmates must be well-maintained. However, this also needs to be supported by an adequate number of staff relative to the workload. In healthcare services, for instance, sufficient and competent medical personnel are required to ensure optimal service delivery,” she stated on Friday.
Rieke also praised the success of the Karawang Prison in transforming previously unproductive land into agricultural, livestock, and fishery zones as a means of fostering inmate independence. She remarked that such programmes do not only support the government’s Food Security Programme but also equip inmates with skills, a work ethic, and a sense of responsibility to prepare them for reintegration into society.
These rehabilitation programmes are a tangible manifestation of the 15 Action Programmes of the Minister of Immigration and Correctional Affairs, Agus Andrianto, specifically regarding the strengthening of productive rehabilitation, inmate empowerment, and the optimisation of prison land to support national food self-sufficiency.
Currently, Karawang Prison continues to develop various training activities, ranging from food crop cultivation to livestock and fishery training, involving inmates actively. The results are utilised not only to support the prison’s internal needs but also to provide inmates with essential skills for their return to the community.
The Head of Karawang Class IIA Prison, Ma’ruf Prasetyo, asserted that the success of the correctional system is measured not only by security aspects but also by the quality of service and the success of rehabilitation. “Ms Rieke Diah Pitaloka’s visit serves as positive energy for us to continue improving the quality of our services, from food and healthcare to rehabilitation oriented towards behavioural change and independence,” said Ma’ruf. He added that the directives from the Minister of Immigration and Correctional Affairs serve as a guide for all correctional staff to provide rehabilitation that has a real impact on both inmates and society.