Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Isi Henry Leonard commended the creativity of female inmates from the Lakiemata Correctional Service prison when he visited their stall at the recently staged Tavur Cultural Show in Kimbe, West New Britain province.
The inmates who set up a stall, displayed printed clothing (laplaps), dresses (meri blouses) and designer materials for sale during the Tavur show. Many of the inmates serving time in prison used that period to learn skills on creative arts in sewing, knitting and printing among other activities.
The platform provided through the Tavur cultural show was an opportunity for the female inmates to showcase their work. Minister Leonard was impressed by the creativity and imagination of the women in creating wonderful pieces of art and designs on clothing, reflecting their culture.
He encouraged the women to continue with their efforts in the arts and craft programs within the CIS while still serving their time rehabilitating in prison. Reminding them that the skills they learnt while in confinement could help them make a living after they were released.
The female inmates were grateful that a leader like Minister Leonard could be so humble and take the time from his busy schedule to visit their stalls, talk and mingle with them, which gave them an assurance of hope and support from the government. He visited many of the stalls, checking out colourful displays, while interacting with the people and celebrating the arts and culture of West New Britain.
Minister Leonard commended Governor Sasindran Muthuvel for the initiative to host the Tavur cultural show to highlight his people’s culture and traditional practices, dances and attires. Adding that as Tourism Minister he would continue to support Governor Muthuvel and his provincial government in protecting and harnessing cultural tourism in West New Britain.