It will be a meaningful Ramadan and Aidilfitri for Pazil Onik, 30, a prisoner who was released on parole from yesterday.

Hailed from Kampung Karamunting in Sandakan, Pazil was selected to be released to be with his family for one month by the Sandakan District Parole Office.

"I applied to be released on parole two weeks ago and was surprised when I was selected.

"It will be a significant occasion for me as I will be able to celebrate the month of Ramadan and Aidilfitri with my family.

"This is an opportunity for me to prove to the family that I have resolved to be a useful person and it is also a gift to my mother and sister for giving me moral support during my detention," he told Bernama .

Pazil, who has 11 brothers, said he would be taking up an electrical wiring job with his sister's company during the parole period.

Awang Ottoh, 50, who recently completed a two-month parole, described his release from prison as a second chance for him.

Awang, who is now working as a supervisor with a security company, said he treasured his release which enabled him to be closer to his wife, their seven children and six grandchildren.

Sabah Prisons Department (Parole Division) deputy director Onasis Abdul Husin said the number of prisoners on parole since 2008 was 212, with 40 currently undergoing parole in five districts in Sabah.

Prisoners on parole were presented with Aidilfitri gifts last night.

- Bernama