BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The issue of drug abuse cannot be addressed in isolation as it requires early prevention efforts that begin at home, alongside law enforcement measures.
The family serves as the foundation in shaping the character of an individual, while educational institutions, workplaces, social circles, and communities play vital roles in developing values, behaviour, and resilience among young people.
This comprehensive approach was shared by Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office (Security and Law) Datuk Seri Setia Awang Sufian Sabtu during the first day of the Second Meeting of the 22nd Legislative Council (LegCo) Session on Monday (Aug 3).
He was responding to a query from LegCo member Amran Maidin regarding new government approaches to curb youth drug abuse and strengthen prevention, rehabilitation, and public awareness.
The minister noted that the drug threat has become increasingly complex due to evolving modus operandi and the influence of social media, which normalises drug abuse among youth.
Prevention must evolve beyond providing information to adopting evidence-based strategies that target risk factors.
To ensure efforts remain effective, the government continues to align practices with the International Standards on Drug Use Prevention developed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
Explored approaches include earlier interventions focusing on strengthening family institutions and boosting students’ social and emotional learning skills to build resilience against peer pressure and life challenges.
Engaging youth as strategic partners to deliver prevention messages through digital platforms and social media is also recognised as key.
The minister added that research and data analysis will be enhanced to ensure initiatives remain targeted, while close collaboration continues across government agencies, families, the private sector, and grassroots leaders like penghulu mukim and village heads.
Through a whole-of-nation approach, these measures aim to reduce drug abuse and mitigate related social issues.
Regarding rehabilitation, the minister stressed that successful recovery extends beyond treatment facilities.
Future rehabilitation models will place greater emphasis on aftercare support, strengthening community networks, and improving reintegration processes to reduce the risk of relapse and help individuals rebuild their lives in society. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
