He made this statement in response to reports of several inmates at a prison in Karawang, West Java, contracting scabies.
"I have deployed a team to evaluate the preventive measures and treatment efforts implemented by the prison management to uphold the health rights of inmates," he said in a written statement on Wednesday.
Pigai explained that, according to a report from the ministry team inspecting the Karawang Class IIA Prison, 352 out of a total of 1,164 inmates had reported to the prison clinic with complaints of itching.
Following examinations, 30 inmates were diagnosed with scabies.
"This figure represents a significant reduction compared to the peak of cases in July 2024, when 126 inmates were diagnosed with scabies," he noted.
The minister highlighted that the head of Karawang Class IIA Prison has introduced measures to prevent and address the spread of scabies, including medical screenings, regular examinations by doctors twice a week, and the provision of antiseptic soap and ointments.
Additionally, the prison management is working in collaboration with the nearest health center to prevent the spread of skin diseases.
"Despite the challenging conditions of overcapacity, I commend the prison head for the significant efforts made to improve health rights for inmates," Pigai added.
He further stated that President Prabowo Subianto remains committed to driving reforms in correctional institutions, particularly in areas such as the fulfillment of inmates' human rights.
"Many improvements will be undertaken in the future as part of the government's commitment to ensuring the human rights of inmates," Pigai said.
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Translator: Fath M, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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