Page 68 - Words

Personal Growth Cheong Pak Yin Ian, 4D (2016-2017)

Last week, at my school’s assembly hall, a teacher informed us about
a scheme called ‘the Reflective Path Scheme’ co-organized by my school
and the Correctional Services Department, which would provide a half-
day experience at the Ma Hang Prison. The teacher said that the aim of
this scheme was to deter us from drug crimes. I thought it would be a rare
opportunity to experience prison life so I decided to participate in this
scheme.

That day, the other participants and I went to a mock courtroom in
a dock. We were handed an eight-year jail term as ‘a criminal convicted
of drug trafficking’. When I was inside the dock, I started to notice the
changes in atmosphere. When ‘the judge’ arrived at the courtroom, the
atmosphere became very serious. We felt nervous and a bit terrified,
especially after ‘the judge’ announced ‘the penalty’ for us.

Immediately, we were transferred to the prison by a prison van. It
was the same as riding in a minibus, except we were handcuffed, wearing a
bright orange outfit and there were wire fences all over the van. During the
ride, I felt thrilled as I was going to experience prison life. It was not just
make believe anymore! However, I became bored during the 2-hour ride
and very soon I fell asleep.

After we arrived at the prison, a prison officer taught us the basic rules
inside the prison. Then he taught us how to fold our clothes and make our
beds in military-style, which was quite interesting. Next, we went into our
own cells where we would stay. It was a tiny room with a bed, a sink and
a toilet. How disgusting when all these things are put together in a room!

68 With Pride, We Stride