Officers in the Quảng Ngãi Police Detention Centre show inmates how to make bánh chưng. — Photo cand.com.vn

Cao Thị B., a 47-year-old detainee, is getting into the Tết spirit by making bánh chưng rice cakes in the Quảng Ngãi Police Detention Centre.

She said she had initially thought she would not be able to enjoy the traditional Tết cakes when serving her sentence, but the centre's correctional officers make a tradition of helping the inmates prepare the sweet treats.

"When we heard we could make bánh chưng while we were here, I was filled with joy," said B.

Just like in previous years, inmates in the centre are getting the full Tết experience. They receive a feast including bánh chưng and pork dishes during the New Year celebration

But their privileges go beyond food. The centre also entitles them to family visitation and additional time for doctor consultations as needed to ensure they have a cosy and comfortable holiday.

Cao Hoài Rin, head of the Supervision Division, said the Youth Union and Women's Union of Nghĩa Kỳ Commune normally organise activities such as bánh chưng-making contests and sports events for inmates during the Tết season.

The activities, he said, create an atmosphere for inmates to learn the value of freedom and push them to work hard to get back on the right path in life.

Nguyễn Thị T., an inmate who has served one year behind bars, said she has almost everything she needs to celebrate Tết in the centre. She is bent on changing herself to reunite with her family soon.

"I will try my best to rehabilitate so I can meet my family again," said T.

Deputy Chief Nguyễn Xuân Dũng said inmates normally have unsettled emotions when Tết draws near. Some feel desperate and depressed without their families.

"We check in regularly with the inmates and talk with them to help them feel better," said Dũng.

In the days leading to the Lunar New Year, inmates receive a break from their work duties to have more time to reflect on themselves. On New Year's Eve, centre officials visit each cell to wish the inmates a happy Tết.

"We also offer gifts to the inmates that have no visitors and encourage them to turn over a new leaf," added Dũng.

In the Thanh Phong Detention Centre in Thanh Hóa Province, inmates are busy decorating their cells and wrapping bánh chưng ahead of Tết.

Nguyễn Thị H., is impressed by the cosy atmosphere and clean facilities, and the care officers give to inmates in the centre. Sentenced to a 10-year sentence, she sees the centre as her second home where she will spend her time changing for the better.

"We are setting up fruit trays and decorating our cells to prepare for Tết," said H.

Phạm Văn Nghị, chief of the Thanh Phong Detention Centre, said inmates will be served an abundant Tết feast with bánh chưng, pork, chicken, and sweets. The centre has also set aside a fund called Golden Hearts to support more than 300 inmates who are currently in the hospital.

As Tết draws near, inmates in detention centres feel the holiday vibes and a warm atmosphere. They are making the centre a place where understanding, kindness and the hope for a better future shine bright. — VNS