Serang Detention Centre Allows 103 Inmates to Break Fast with Families
The Class IIB Serang Detention Centre held a communal iftar event and permitted hundreds of inmates to break their fast together with their families — an activity rarely organised by detention facilities.
The iftar gathering took place at the Serang Detention Centre on Monday (23 February 2026) for 103 inmates. Visiting families brought specially requested food for breaking the fast, whilst the detention centre also provided dates, fried snacks, mixed ice, and soto.
According to a statement from the Serang Detention Centre, one inmate, Frederik Marcelino, expressed his gratitude at being given the opportunity to enjoy the iftar moment with his child and wife after eight months of detention.
“Thank God, I’m delighted — it’s truly a blessing to be given this opportunity. I’m so happy to be together with my beloved family,” said Frederik on Monday (23 February 2026).
Beyond being able to break fast with his child and wife, Frederik said his happiness was further heightened because his family brought his favourite food — a home-cooked meal prepared by his wife that he had not tasted for months.
“Thank God they brought it — this is my favourite dish: chicken with quail eggs and water spinach,” he said.
The Banten Regional Head of the Directorate General of Corrections, M Ali Syeh Banna, said the programme could provide a spiritual impact for inmates by enabling family visits.
“This is an extraordinary programme — I am very pleased and fully supportive. When families feel a sense of belonging like this, the inmates don’t feel abandoned; they feel they are still part of their families,” said Ali.
Meanwhile, Serang Detention Centre Head Rangga Permata explained that the event could not involve all inmates due to space constraints. The facility plans to hold another iftar session for those who have not yet had their turn to break fast with family.
“Currently, 103 inmates participated in the iftar with their families. We plan to hold it twice during Ramadan — on 23 February and 6 March — so the inmates will take turns,” said Rangga.