In a split second decision: Youth jailed for slashing man with knife at Clarke Quay

SINGAPORE – Turning a New Leaf: The Journey of Young Offenders

When Mr Mohamad Amirul Shafi Abdullah was just 19, a fight over money led him to make a life-changing decision—he slashed a man’s face with a kitchen knife. This reckless act landed him in the Reformative Training Centre (RTC) in 2019. At the RTC, young offenders like Amirul follow a strict routine filled with foot drills and counseling, aimed at helping them reflect on their actions.

A Troubling Pattern

Fast forward six months after his release, Amirul found himself in trouble again. In March 2022, he was involved in an altercation at Clarke Quay, sparked by an alleged staring incident. This time, he was sentenced to 10 months in jail. Speaking to a news source in January 2024, Amirul reflected on his choices. He admitted that despite promising himself that the first incident would be his last, he acted impulsively during the second attack.

The first fight stemmed from a money dispute—his friend had lent money to someone who failed to repay it, leading to a confrontation. While at the RTC, Amirul faced personal loss when his great-grandmother passed away, which motivated him to change. Unfortunately, he struggled to break free from the cycle of violence.

Another Chance

Despite his intentions, Amirul found himself in a violent situation again after a night of drinking with friends. They assaulted a man over a staring incident, resulting in his conviction for assault. Now at 25, Amirul is determined to turn his life around. He is focusing on his part-time job as a kitchen assistant and is beginning to understand the futility of resorting to violence over trivial matters.

Lessons Learned

Another individual, Russell, faced a similar fate. In 2014, he witnessed his father’s violent act against a secret society member, which resulted in serious legal consequences for their family. Russell’s father injured the assailant, and despite Russell’s attempt to hide the weapon, the police discovered it, leading to a cascade of legal troubles. Russell received 12 months’ probation, while his mother served six months in jail, and his father was sentenced to 18 months in prison.

Now a retail store manager, Russell emphasizes the importance of controlling one’s temper and avoiding actions that can harm others. His experience taught him a valuable lesson about the long-term consequences of violence.

Support for Change

Mr. Narasimman Tivasiha Mani, co-founder of Impart, a local non-profit organization dedicated to helping at-risk youth, has been a mentor to both Amirul and Russell. He highlighted the progress these young men have made and the importance of holistic support for youth with traumatic backgrounds. This includes assistance in education, mental health, and community integration, all crucial for helping them forge a positive path forward.

Hope for Rehabilitation

This story underscores the potential for rehabilitation and transformation among young offenders. With the right support and guidance, individuals like Amirul and Russell can learn from their mistakes and contribute positively to society.

To ensure successful rehabilitation, it is essential to provide information on specific programs and initiatives available for young offenders. What measures are in place to address their needs and help them reintegrate effectively into society?

Statistics and success stories of individuals who have benefited from rehabilitation programs can inspire confidence in the public and encourage support for these efforts.

How can we collectively ensure that young offenders receive the necessary support for a successful transformation?

For more insights on youth rehabilitation programs in Singapore, visit [Impart](https://www.impart.org.sg).

By fostering an environment of understanding and support, we can help these young individuals turn their lives around and build a brighter future.