On 27 April 2015 at the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), the ASEAN Youth Forum sought the kindness in President Joko Widodo's heart to grant Mary Jane Veloso, A Filipina on Death Row in Indonesia, a reprieve from her execution. (http://www.rappler.com/move-ph/91287-asean-youth-letter-jokowi-save-mary-jane)

On 28 April  2015, Mary Jane Veloso was granted a last minute reprieve at Nusa Kambangan Prison, Indonesia.

On Tuesday, 5 May 2015, members of the ASEAN Youth Forum (AYF) visited Mary Jane Fiesta Veloso in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. We had a last minute permission from the Yogyakarta Attorney General's Office. During the 30 Minute chat, Mary Jane opened her heart and soul to those present in that visitor's hall at Wirogunan Prison. We immediately were inspired and enlightened by her kind heart and untainted, fighting spirit. Mary Jane was indeed an empowered woman. Despite her horrible situation, Mary Jane sat there empowered. Her embracing presence was very inspirational and was indeed a showcase of her greatness as a human being. Whilst being victimised by social and economic circumstances, Mary Jane Veloso touched our hearts. She is indeed the epitome of the ASEAN Youth.

What we can pronounce and know is that she is a victim of many circumstances (human trafficking, drug trafficking and poverty). She does not deserve any form of punishment. Justice for Mary Jane has to be served (freedom from her current situation and a good quality of life for her and her loved ones). Mary Jane is not unique. As of this writing, countless ASEAN youth have fallen and are falling victim to socio-economic and political evils. Mary Jane does not deserve such dehuminising treatment.

There is no doubt that Mary Jane deserves a chance to live and to be a mother to her two children, a sister to her siblings and a role model for young people all throughout the world. A Grasi (or Clemency) this Ramadan 2015 from President Joko Widodo is the most fitting gift the Father of Indonesia can give to a young person who is seeking redemption. 

We strongly believe that Joko Widodo is a good, honest, kind, clean and humane father of the people. He serves as an icon for young people to have a dignified vision and to dream without fear. His unique power stems from his compassion for the downtrodden and marginalised. He is definitely a prime example of a benevolent leader. Giving this Constutional power of Grasi (Clemency) to Mary Jane will further prove President Jokowi's allegiance to human rights and his benevolent and strong character. 

Grasi for Mary Jane will not affect President Jokowi's position as the leader of Southeast Asia's largest Nation, albeit it will mark his greatness as a human being, as a father believing in second chances, human rights and freedoms. 

We, the ASEAN Youth, are asking everyone to help Mary Jane enjoy that second chance to a decent and dignified life. Your petition will make a significant change in someone's life.

A summary of all petitions will be sent directly to Bapak Presiden Joko Widodo and to those who can influence his decision before Ramadan commences in June. #savemaryjane #grasiformaryjane #grasiuntukmaryjane.  

For inquiries and next steps, email us at aseanyouthregional@gmail.com