On the eve of the Lunar New Year, waves of applause and warmth filled “Rixin Hall” at Chiayi Prison. To help inmates feel the care and support of society, Chiayi Prison joined forces with the Chiayi District Prosecutors Office and the Chiayi Branch of the Rehabilitation Protection Association to host a soul-enriching cultural event on February 6.

In his remarks, Warden Tsai Ching-Yu shared emotionally that this marks his third assignment serving at Chiayi Prison during his career. Noting many familiar faces in the audience, he spoke earnestly: “I hope that after your release this time, you will truly turn over a new leaf and not ‘meet again’ in a correctional facility.” His sincere encouragement deeply resonated with every inmate present.

Chief Prosecutor Tsai Tsung-Hsi of the Chiayi District Prosecutors Office also offered words of inspiration, referencing the Kṣitigarbha Bodhisattva Fundamental Vow Sutra. He reminded everyone that as long as one holds kindness in their heart, it is never too late to change course and begin a new life.

The highlight of the event was a special performance by the Jinri Palm Puppet Troupe. Its director, Hsu Chia-Cheng, once served a prison sentence himself; after his release, he took over the family business and successfully transformed it, earning recognition with the Golden Palm Award at the Yunlin International Puppet Arts Festival. The performance featured technically demanding acts such as “puppet face-changing,” “puppet archery,” and a “puppet lion dance.” Puppet masters stepped from behind the curtain to the front of the stage, delivering vivid performances that guided inmates to appreciate the resilience of life through traditional art.

Chiayi Prison emphasized that it will continue promoting cultural education and rehabilitation initiatives while building comprehensive reintegration mechanisms to support inmates in successfully returning to society. Special thanks were extended to Jiuhuashan Dizang Temple for its many years of support, allowing this warmth and care to be passed on.