Monday - 4 November 2024, Second Chance Foundation, together with a group of partners from the Singapore Catholic Church Mission Group, had the opportunity to visit several correctional institutions in Batam City. The visit was warmly welcomed by the Head of Juvenile’s Correctional Facility Class II Batam, Mr. Kadek Dedy Wirawan Arintama; the Head of Women's Correctional Facility Class IIB Batam, Mrs. Nur Mustafidah, and the Head of Correctional Facility Class IIA Batam, Mr. Heri Kusrita.

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This activity began with an explanation of the coaching program that has been running and the needs that still require support from third parties.

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The inmates at Juvenile Corrections Facility Class II Batam follow coaching activities that include formal education, a dance studio, and a creativity development program, such as batik, to explore creativity and plant new hopes for their future. Religious activities also involve children with disabilities. These activities are not just art but a place for children to express themselves and grow through valuable skills.

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The Women's Correctional Facility Class IIB, located in the same building as Juvenile Correctional Center Class II Batam, has limited workspace. However, this situation does not reduce the prisoners' enthusiasm to continue working. Activities like crocheting in collaboration with third-party flower partners manifest the prisoners' diligence and love of art for making flower bouquets and written batik. Although simple, each flower arrangement they produce symbolizes the prisoners' fortitude and sincerity. There were also activities such as nail art, jali bag making, and sewing.

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Second Chance Foundation also had the opportunity to visit Correctional Facility Class IIA Batam. The inmates of Correctional Facility Class IIA Batam are currently active in the production of Bakery Rapastam (Roti Lapas Batam), raw tempeh processing, motorbike mechanics, sewing, laundry, barbershop, and various carpentry products as proof of their commitment to change and lead a better life.

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This visit shows how much passion, creativity, and hard work goes on behind the walls of correctional institutions. Let us together support them, encourage them, and realize the hope for a new, more positive life. The community's support is significant so that children and prisoners can reintegrate into society with their spirits intact and determination not to repeat past mistakes.

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Behind limitations, there is always opportunity.