Taiwan Mobilizes Prisoners to Manufacture Masks... "Growing Pride"

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Park Sun-mi] AFP reported on the 11th that Taiwan is mobilizing even prison inmates to meet the demand for masks.

The agency explained that inmates at Taipei Prison usually use sewing machines to make prison uniforms, but since the spread of COVID-19, they have been focusing on making masks. It also reported that about 52,000 masks have been produced since mid-February.

As masks became scarce due to the spread of COVID-19, Taiwan early on banned mask exports and introduced a rationing system. The quantity available for purchase per person per week is three masks.

Yan Chi-hong, the warden of Taipei Prison, said, "At the beginning of mask production, inmates made about 450 masks daily, but now they make about 1,000. The inmates are willingly working overtime to meet the order volume. In fact, the guards tell them to take a break."

The agency also reported that inmates feel pride in making masks. An inmate serving a 23-year sentence for drug and firearm possession said, "Every time I sew a mask, I think I am bringing safety to my family. Masks not only contribute to social service but also instill pride."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.