His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia Visits Fiji Corrections Service Headquarters to Discuss Bilateral Cooperation on Corrections and Rehabilitation

His Excellency Mr. Dupito Darma Simamora, the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia, visited the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) National Headquarters today to discuss pending issues between the two countries concerning corrections and rehabilitation efforts. This courtesy visit marks a significant step toward strengthening the collaborative relationship between Fiji and Indonesia in developing effective correctional practices.

The discussions centered around the formulation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government of Indonesia and the FCS, focusing on bilateral interests such as staff training, rehabilitation programs, and capacity building, pending Cabinet approval. His Excellency expressed a keen interest in collaborating with the Commissioner of FCS to position the organization as a Regional Hub for Corrections in the Pacific.

The Commissioner conveyed his sincere appreciation to His Excellency for facilitating a study tour to Indonesia last year. He highlighted that the tour was an eye-opening experience that offered valuable insights into innovative correctional practices and succession planning within the Indonesian systems. Following this inspiration, the Commissioner expressed a desire to implement a similar succession plan for officer training, enhancing the professional development of FCS personnel.

During the visit, the Commissioner also presented a plaque to His Excellency as a token of the FCS’s appreciati

on for Indonesia’s continued support and assistance in strengthening the capabilities of the FCS. This gesture underscores the mutual respect and commitment to collaborative efforts in corrections management.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the critical need for a bilateral approach to advancing staff capacity and training for senior officers, as well as infrastructure development. The Commissioner reiterated the FCS vision of transforming the FCS Academy into a Regional Training Centre for Corrections in the Pacific, aiming to provide high-quality training opportunities for correctional staff across the region.

Reflecting on the discussions held during his visit to Indonesia, the Commissioner remarked on the impressive strategies employed within the Indonesian Corrections System, particularly regarding the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders into society. He noted the potential benefits of implementing several practices from the Indonesian model within Fiji’s correctional framework, especially in officer training.

His Excellency Mr. Simamora expressed enthusiasm for further collaboration with the FCS, emphasizing Indonesia’s commitment to sharing knowledge and best practices in corrections management. Both parties recognized the importance of international cooperation in enhancing correctional systems and improving outcomes for individuals under correctional supervision.

The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to explore avenues for ongoing dialogue and partnership, ensuring that both nations can continue to learn from each other’s experiences in corrections.