Teenagers behind bars

While most teenagers spend their time having fun with their peers at malls or cinemas, some are behind bars, in youth penitentiaries for a range of juvenile offenses.

This series of photos highlights teenagers at the youth penitentiary in Tangerang, Banten. These youths were jailed after being convicted of crimes including drug trafficking, theft, robbery, sexual abuse and murder.

Their now-disciplined days start each morning, when they attend classes in the penitentiary school compound. After school, they are trained in handicraft making, engine repairs, sewing, art or cooking.

Some of the youths, many of whom are from disadvantaged or abusive backgrounds, say they suffer from loneliness and sorrow inside, while others remain optimistic about their future. -- Text and photos by R. Berto Wedhatama

Photo A: BAR

A young youth with tattoos on his back draws a mural inside his cell. Creativity inside the jail is encouraged.

Photo B: BAR

A youngster cooks soup at the jail's kitchen for fellow inmates. The prison's management only allows trusted prisoners to use knives.

Photo C: BAR

A sculpture of a concrete diary reads: "We transgressed the law yesterday, we are now learning, and tomorrow we will become law enforcers" in the prison's yard. The sculpture aims to instill optimism in the hearts of the young convicts.

Photo D: BAR

Inmates are allowed to relax in the afternoon.

Photo E: BAR

An former inmate wears a red badge that indicates his status as a social worker in the jail compound. When the youths are released, they can apply to become volunteers to help rehabilitate other prisoners.

Photo F: BAR

Young inmates give a victory sign. Despite having lost their freedom, the youngsters are still able to share light moments in jail.

Photo G: BAR

Wearing jeans and a T-shirt, an inmate enjoys a meal.