"Then during my time in Salemba Prison, I thought Salemba Prison was just like a drug-free rehabilitation. It turned out to be the hub for all kinds of drugs. It was really very hard, very, very hard to avoid all of that," said Ammar Zoni at the Central Jakarta District Court on Thursday (2/4/2026).

"Moreover, over there, drugs feel like buying fried peanuts, so easy to get at relatively cheap prices. For 3 to 6 months, cravings and triggers arise. I hold on, hold on. But what can I do, I am just a sick person, powerless against my addiction," Ammar Zoni continued.

Ammar realizes that his decision to return to drugs is a very fatal mistake. He does not defend himself for his actions, but he emphasizes how difficult it is to survive in an environment where the majority are users. For him, being in a cell surrounded by drugs is an incredibly heavy test.

"I know this is wrong. With all the events that have happened, there should be no more reason for me to touch that thing again, even just occasionally. Because that is the cause of all my suffering, which has destroyed my life completely. But how can I avoid and fight against this addiction, in an environment where almost 90% are drug users? Even drugs are everywhere, almost in every cell room," he explained.

In every prayer, Ammar admits he always asks for strength to break free from the vicious circle of narcotics. He acknowledges all his mistakes to himself, his family, and the wider community who have trusted him. Ammar feels fully responsible for all the legal consequences he is currently facing.

"In every prayer, I always ask for strength to change what I can change, and wisdom to know the difference. Your Honor, I admit I am guilty. I am guilty to myself, I am guilty to my family, to my children, to my closest ones, and to everyone who believes in me. I am guilty and I am facing the consequences of my mistakes," he explained.

Ammar concluded his defense by pleading for an opportunity from the judges to prove that he can live without drugs. He has a strong desire to return to a career in the arts and to be an example for the younger generation so they do not fall into the same pit.

"Allow me to show that I can change for the better without drugs. Returning to society, once again carving achievements, building a career in the arts without drugs, being a role model for my children, and also being an example for the next generation. I apologize to the extended family for tarnishing the family's good name," he concluded.