here we go

i've just completed my first week of attachment at cluster a (the only cluster located at changi prison complex at the present moment) and from what i've seen so far, i think i'll find the next couple of months time well spent. clusters b (which i'll be joining next week) and c still comprise of islandwide stand alone institutions but are preparing to shift as soon as construction of their new state of the art premises is complete. under the cluster concept, a cluster comprises of several institutions, which in turn are made up of a number of housing units - somewhat resembling the division-brigade-battalion setup in the army. i spent most of my time on the ground finding out more about the unique features of each housing unit. for example, they have a range of security classifications and different rehabilitative initiatives to tailor to the inmates' personal route maps.

while i found my entire tour of cluster a both interesting and informative, the highlight of my week was undoubtedly the opportunity to sit in on a heartfelt talk to the inmates by dr wong meng ee, recipient of the president's social service award in 2002, and later slip in a short chat with him as well as several of the inmates. incidentally, the whole programme was part of the filming process for the 8th episode of the upcoming channel 5 production against all odds. (dr wong gave a similar group of inmates a motivational speech during his first prison visit earlier in the year and decided the experience was so worthwhile he wanted to feature his interaction with them in his life story.) two exemplary inmates were also interviewed by the media team, so the entire project really falls in line with the current focus of the singapore prison service.

for once, it's a great feeling to be part of an edifying environment where everyone is pulling together in the right direction. the nature of prison work is such that for all its inherent meaning, those who are unable to discern it (or discern it but are unable to sustain it in the face of numerous challenges) would tend to reflect upon their priorities, ultimately ensuring that the staff who do stay in it for the long run are the ones who truly identify with the organisation's mission and vision.