40 Inmates of Terrorism Pledge Allegiance to Indonesia

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - 40 inmates of terrorism at the Gunung Sindur penitentiary in Bogor have participated in the renowned deradicalization program and pledged allegiance to the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). The program, which was introduced by the National Terrorism Agency (BNPT), counterterrorism unit Densus 88, and the Directorate General of Corrections, Ministry of Law and Human Rights, was held on Monday, August 15. 

"The active role of relevant institutions in the program of deradicalization activities is expected to optimize the results obtained for the sake of a harmonious and tolerant Indonesia," said BNPT Head Commissioner General Boy Rafli Amar, Antaranews reported.

Boy Rafli claimed that these 40 terrorist convicts were willing to pledge their loyalty after receiving guidance from prison management. "So this process is pursued every year," he said.

He stressed that the program is certainly a challenging one to commit to annually, but believes the process must run continuously. 

After the inmates of terrorism pledge their allegiance, they would receive follow-up guidance programs outside of penitentiary walls once they serve their complete sentence. State facilities to run such programs are spread across Central Java, West Java, East Java, West Nusa Tenggara, and Central Sulawesi. 

"So the program after leaving prison will continue when they are in the community. What is important is that we make sure that these people constantly think positively for the good of this nation and country," said the BNPT chief. 

ANTARA

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