The Kerobokan Rehabilitation Center
I was excited to meet the women at the Kerobokan Rehabilitation Center. Social media can be a powerful tool for connection, as proven in this instance. I often receive unusual messages on social media, and initially, I thought this was just another one. But, believe it or not, it was a message from someone in jail!
It turned out that a follower I’d met a long time ago was incarcerated for fraud. Apparently, she translated fake ID cards (“KTP”) for foreigners in Bali and became a scapegoat in the situation. There are currently 216 women in the jail, and despite my apprehension, I was happy to visit.
Visiting the Jail
Entering the jail, with no prior experience, I could only rely on movie portrayals. A sign and a small door, no more than 160 centimeters high, greeted me.
Upon entering, I was welcomed by my follower from Instagram and security staff. After being checked and cleared, my tour began.
Expectations vs. Reality
Knowing Indonesia, I was expecting a dirty and overcrowded facility with women struggling due to lack of government support and corruption. Thankfully, I was pleasantly surprised by the welcoming atmosphere and sense of happiness within the penitentiary. The staff seemed well-liked and respected by the inmates, and this respect was reciprocated.
The Inmates
Most inmates were imprisoned for drug-related offenses, unsurprising considering Bali’s tourism and long-term foreign residency that creates a market for such activities. Surprisingly, the jail had a more positive atmosphere, resembling an “adult kindergarten.” The women had various activities like singing, sewing, knitting, and even cooking – all skills beneficial for life after release. Cooking, hairstyling, and nail art provided minor skills they could potentially use upon reintegration into society.
My primary purpose for the visit was to promote some of the products they were making, such as stuffed animals, crackers, and clothing they sell online. While my initial perception of a dirty and dysfunctional jail vanished, replaced by a well-established inmate society, it remained a somber reality that some women faced decades of incarceration.
A Positive Experience
This visit was a pleasant surprise. I’m also happy to know that my contact, Nur, will be released in November. At that time, I hope to meet with her outside of jail and hear her full story. In the meantime, if you’re in Indonesia, please consider supporting the women at the Kerobokan Rehabilitation Center.
