BEFORE the Deepavali festival this weekend, the atmosphere at Ms Komathy d/o Somasundaram’s house was livelier after being given a new look by some residents of the Jamiyah Halfway House (Darul Islah). With the living room and rooms cleaned and repainted, Ms Komathy – who lives with her mother and her two daughters – is eager to invite their family and friends in conjunction with the celebration.

The effort is part of Project Happiness organised by Jamiyah Halfway House (Darul Islah) to provide opportunities for former offenders to help renovate the homes of the needy ahead of the festive season.