BATU GAJAH: After nearly four years apart from his family, a former inmate had just one wish upon his early release today — to seek his mother’s forgiveness.
The man, who wished to be known only as Thilagan, 36, from Teluk Intan, said the royal pardon granted by the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, in conjunction with the ruler’s official birthday celebration was an opportunity to mend his relationship with his family.
“I want to hold my mother’s feet first and apologise to her because I have hurt her feelings so many times.
“I realise that I have made many mistakes, been a bad son and often caused my family worry, but now I want to change,” he said after the early release ceremony at the Batu Gajah Correctional Centre here today.
Thilagan was among 58 prospects in Perak released before the expiry of their prison sentences after receiving pardons granted by Sultan Nazrin on the recommendation of the Perak Pardons Board.
Deputy Commissioner-General of Prisons (Security and Correctional) Rosoman Abu Bakar @ Che Din officiated the ceremony.
Thilagan said his release would allow him to celebrate his mother’s 73rd birthday on Dec 8, as well as Deepavali with his family.
“It has been a long time since I last ate my mother’s cooking. When I called her yesterday, she said she would prepare vegetable curry and stingray sambal. I am also looking forward to eating mutton curry,” he said.
Thilagan had been serving a three-year-and-three-month prison sentence for an offence under Section 39C of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
Another inmate granted early release, Yugan, 33, from Tapah, said his nearly four years behind bars had taught him to improve himself and avoid repeating past mistakes.
He said he had acquired various skills, alongside religious knowledge, which he hoped would serve as a foundation for a new life.
“I want to change and never return to prison again. During my time here, I have learnt a lot, including religious knowledge, marching drills and sewing skills at the workshop,” he said.
Along, 28, from Kuala Kangsar, said he did not want to blame anyone for his involvement in drug abuse.
He was initially due for release in January 2027 after being detained in 2023. He said his parents advised him to seek employment away from his hometown to avoid environments that could lead him back to his old habits.
“I do not want to blame anyone or point fingers at my friends because the decision to get involved with drugs was entirely my own.
“I hope to secure a job after my release. Once I have a job and a more stable life, I also hope to start a family of my own,” he said.
He said that during his sentence, he had also acquired event management skills, including setting up tents and tables, which he hoped would help him secure employment. — BERNAMA