FULL - Berebut Napas dalam Lapas, Special Program

Summary

This documentary sheds light on the dire conditions in Indonesia's overcrowded prisons, particularly in Banjarmasin, Kalimantan. With inmate populations far exceeding capacity, many prisons are operating at 600% overcapacity, leading to cramped living conditions, inadequate resources, and limited supervision. The film explores the daily lives of prisoners, including their struggles for space, the impact of overcrowding on rehabilitation programs, and the challenges faced by female inmates. Despite these hardships, there are efforts at reform and rehabilitation, though systemic issues, such as narcotics trafficking and corruption, persist in the system.

Takeaways

• 😀 Overcrowding in Indonesian prisons is a critical issue, with some facilities exceeding their capacity by over 600%.
• 😀 Inmates often have to share cramped living spaces, with some sleeping in 'Batman' swings made of fabric to save space.
• 😀 Overcrowding affects rehabilitation efforts, with limited resources and space for programs aimed at reintegrating inmates into society.
• 😀 Prison staff are overwhelmed, with a ratio of 1 guard for every 60 inmates, making supervision and control challenging.
• 😀 Drug trafficking and other illicit activities continue in overcrowded prisons, despite frequent raids and checks.
• 😀 Female inmates face additional challenges, including giving birth in prison and being locked in cells during free time to prevent escapes.
• 😀 The Indonesian government is taking steps to address overcrowding, such as expanding existing prisons and revising outdated regulations.
• 😀 There is a significant push for rehabilitation over incarceration, especially for those imprisoned for drug-related offenses, as many prisons are filled with drug offenders.
• 😀 Some prisoners are involved in vocational programs, such as making Sasirangan cloth or baking bread, which offer them a chance to improve skills and create products for internal use or external sales.
• 😀 Prison reform is an ongoing process, with challenges in balancing security, rehabilitation, and reducing overcrowding.
• 😀 Despite the systemic issues, some inmates express a desire to change their behavior and prove they can be reintegrated into society, focusing on self-improvement and vocational skills.

Q & A

What is the primary issue faced by Indonesian prisons as discussed in the script?

The primary issue discussed is overcrowding, with some prisons operating at over 600% of their intended capacity, leading to severe discomfort and limited resources for inmates.

How severe is the overcrowding problem in the Banjarmasin prison?

The Banjarmasin prison has an overcrowding rate of 650%, housing 2,378 inmates in a facility meant for only 366 people.

What is the situation like for female prisoners compared to male prisoners in Indonesia?

Female prisoners face additional challenges, such as being locked in their cells during free time to prevent escape, and they also face issues related to the health and well-being of children born in prison.

What is the 'Batman' mentioned in the transcript?

'Batman' refers to a makeshift sleeping arrangement where inmates sleep in a hammock-like position due to lack of space, often sharing cramped spaces with multiple people.

What steps have been taken to address overcrowding in Indonesian prisons?

The government has begun constructing new facilities, such as expanding the Lapas Narkotika Karang Intan, to increase capacity and reduce overcrowding. Additionally, there are efforts to reform policies related to remissions and inmate rehabilitation.

How does the presence of narcotics affect prison conditions?

Despite efforts to control it, narcotics remain prevalent in many prisons, exacerbating safety concerns and complicating the already strained resources and supervision.

Why is there a discrepancy in the number of inmates entering and leaving the prison system?

Each week, approximately 40 new inmates enter the system, but only around 30 are released, leading to a constant increase in prison populations and further exacerbating overcrowding.

What role do prison guards (sipir) play in the daily functioning of prisons?

Prison guards are responsible for overseeing the inmates, though they face significant challenges due to the overcrowded conditions, including ensuring security and preventing illicit activities like drug smuggling.

What are some of the rehabilitation programs available in Indonesian prisons?

Prisons offer various programs like personality development, spiritual guidance, and skills training, including workshops on making products like bread and sandals, to help inmates reintegrate into society.

What are the proposed reforms to improve prison conditions, particularly regarding narcotic offenders?

The government is considering revisions to the 2012 regulations on remissions, with a focus on addressing narcotic crimes and terrorism more effectively, and potentially revising policies around 'justice collaborators' to prevent misuse.