19 Years of Quiet Revolutions at Changi Prison
Laila Hasan, a 65‑year‑old religious education teacher, has turned a routine into a heartfelt tradition. Almost every week—well, not during the Covid‑19 pause—she steps into the Changi Prison Complex, sticking around for two hours to read the Quran and chat with inmates.
Why the Inmates Keep Showers at the Door
- They anticipate her arrival—there’s a rhythm to the prison’s daily life, and Laila’s two‑hour window becomes a welcome pause.
- What she says matters—she shares verses that ground the prisoners, offering a touch of redemption amid a tough legal journey.
- Feelings exchanged—even after years of interaction, Laila admits she used to shy away from replying to “I love you” from inmates. Now she’s brave enough to say back: “I love you too.”
It’s Not a One‑Way Conversation
During a quiet moment at the Home Team National Day Observance Ceremony on Aug 4, Laila explained that her role goes beyond reading scripture. She “creates a positive environment,” says her, because strengthening faith can help silence negative emotions.
Family and Fellowship: The Backbone Behind the Work
- Her husband’s support—he too volunteers, offering a steady hand and a nod when confidential matters surface.
- Boundaries respected—when prisoners ask her to forward personal messages, she respectfully declines, staying on the straight line of policy.
- Personal touch—she says the courage and passion to “sincerely help” is the key secret behind her bond with them.
Recognised for the Quiet Impact
During the ceremony, held at the Home Team Academy in Choa Chu Kang, Laila was awarded for her volunteer work with the Singapore Prison Service. More than 300 attendees, including Home Team officers, volunteers and the Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam, were part of the celebration.
“I’m happy to see them during these two hours,” she told AsiaOne, emphasizing the simple pleasure she’s found in the daily meetings.
Why This Matters
In a place that can feel isolating and cold, Laila’s calm presence reminds inmates that they’re heard, respected, and capable of caring. The story of 19 years of weekly devotion shows that a gentle, consistent touch can bring a spark of hope even behind bars.
We overcome these emotions together
Singapore’s Death‑Penalty Debate: From Staunch Support to Public Protest
On March 3, Shanmugam lit up the budget debate, preaching that the death penalty isn’t just old‑fashioned—it’s “a strong, clear and deterrent impact.” He even cited a Ministry of Home Affairs survey where a whopping 80 % of Singaporeans felt the death row verdict kept crooks in line.
Fast‑Forward to the People’s Voice
- About a month later, a crowd of several hundred people gathered at Speakers’ Corner in Hong Lim Park to stage a protest.
- Among them was Laila, who chose to keep her true thoughts on capital punishment under wraps.
What Laila Really Says
She shared a quirky, faith‑based mantra: “Accept it as part of God’s will.” She says she’s been guiding death‑row inmates to see the sentence not as a doom but as a potential blessing in disguise.
“Those inmates often feel scared and nervous,” Laila admitted. “I try to build genuine trust and rapport so they feel comfortable talking to me.” She added, “We’re in this together, and the harsh punishment is just a stepping stone toward healing.”
Why This Matters
It’s a stark reminder that the public’s view on the death penalty isn’t monolithic. While some authorities maintain it’s a deterrent, activists and even some clergy see it as a moral and ethical nightmare. The clash in public opinion—fuelled by 80 % of survey respondents versus a vocal protest group—shows Singapore’s justice debate remains hot‑to‑touch.
And that’s a wrap on this gripping clash of beliefs. The debate continues, and everyone’s got a seat—whether you’re cheering from the podium or cheering from the corner.
Giving up on them was never an option
Laila’s Super‑Support Squad: Empowering Ex‑Inmates with Heart & Humor
Meet Laila, the go‑to guru of second chances. In addition to her volunteer gigs at the Changi Prison Complex, she runs a tight‑knit support group of roughly 50 women who’ve stepped out of the walls of prison. Each week, they gather at her religious education centre in Woodlands, where Laila drops wisdom like confetti on a life’s path to redemption.
Never Just a Hand‑out: A Family, Not a Faction
- Some women stumble and swing back into trouble, but Laila never «sells them out.»
- She’s the cornerstone who tells them, “Even if you fall, stand up for yourself and for us.”
- Her group is a family, where laughs and support go hand in hand—no one leaves the table hungry or alone.
Stories that Light the Way
The biggest joy? Staying in touch with the inmates after they’re out, hearing their victorious tales… Imagine an ex‑inmate slamming the smoking habit, ditching drugs, and starting a home‑based food biz. That’s the kind of headline that makes Laila’s volunteer skin crawl with pride.
Why Volunteering Matters to Laila
Laila says volunteering isn’t just a hobby; it’s her meaningful life piano. She keeps the momentum: “These stories keep me motivated to keep giving.”
When a former inmate tells her of quitting cigarettes, abandoning drugs, and juggling a thriving kitchen, Laila feels the deepest satisfaction—a good dose of triumph that fuels her noble quest.
And you know what? It’s a generous mix of empathy, laughter, and relentless hope.
