Seven more drug rehab centres to be opened

Fatimah says the state government wants to provide greater access to those seeking treatment for drug and substance abuse.

SARAWAK plans to set up seven more one-stop centres for addiction (Osca) to widen access to treatment and rehabilitation for individuals addicted to drugs and substances.

State Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said the additional centres would be set up in health clinics in Lawas, Limbang, Subis, Betong, Bau, Bintulu and Sibu, which have been identified as high-risk districts for drug abuse.

The state currently has two Osca centres at the Petra Jaya health clinic in Kuching and Tudan health clinic in Miri.

“Drug abuse rehabilitation in Sarawak is presently at a 1:8 ratio. That means for every individual receiving treatment and rehabilitation, there are eight more individuals who have not come forward for rehabilitation.

“To improve access to treatment and rehabilitation, one of our plans is to set up more Oscas in suitable health clinics this year, ” she said at a virtual press conference to announce the drug and substance abuse one-stop committee’s monthly report yesterday.

Run by the Health Department, Osca provides voluntary treatment and rehabilitation in the community for drug and substance addiction.

Fatimah said one of Osca’s advantages was that individuals seeking treatment there were less likely to be stigmatised for their addiction.

“It is based at a clinic, so the treatment is seen as a health issue.

“People who come to Osca will not feel stigmatised compared to those who go to an institution like Puspen (narcotics addiction rehabilitation centre).

“Osca also treats people who are addicted to smoking and consuming alcohol, apart from drugs.

“So for addicts who go to Osca, there is less stigmatisation, ” she said.

Fatimah said the main challenge faced by the one-stop committee, which she chairs, was treatment and rehabilitation.

“In particular, one disadvantage we have is stigmatisation.

“With more Oscas in place, we want to encourage people to come in voluntarily to get help, ” she said.

In addition, Fatimah said the committee emphasised prevention through awareness, advocacy and education programmes in schools, workplaces, the community and families.

“In April, 63 such programmes were carried out at district level at workplaces, educational institutions and in the community, ” she said.