"This is our form of appreciation for achievements, dedication, and discipline (of the inmates) while serving their sentences," Immigration and Correction Affairs Minister Agus Andrianto stated in his written remarks on Wednesday.
This year's Christmas remission was granted to a total of 16,078 prisoners, comprising 15,927 adult inmates and 151 children in conflict with the law, of whom 174 were declared free immediately.
The minister said that remissions and sentence reductions reflect the government’s leniency toward inmates and are part of a humane, recovery-oriented penitentiary system.
He said that the remission, especially for inmates who were released immediately, relieves overcrowding in prisons and ensures more conducive conditions in penitentiary facilities.
The remission also helped reduce the prison food expense by Rp9.47 billion (US$565,400).
Meanwhile, Andrianto stated that the remissions are expected to motivate inmates to become better people in preparation for their return to society, where they are expected to play a positive role.
He also reminded inmates to be mindful of their families at home on the occasion of this year's Christmas Day.
Director General of Correctional Affairs Mashudi stated that special remissions were granted to inmates who had fulfilled all legal requirements.
"All recipients of the Christmas remissions are inmates who have exhibited good conduct, actively participate in penitentiary activities, and no longer pose a risk to society," he remarked.
According to Government Regulation No. 99 of 2012, adult prisoners must have served at least six months of their sentence, while minors must have served three months to qualify for remission.
Meanwhile, inmates convicted of terrorism-related offences are required to undergo a deradicalization program and pledge allegiance to Indonesia before being eligible for parole.
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Translator: Fath Putra Mulya, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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