Saifuddin (on stage, left) flagging off the run at XPRESI GenTa programme in Sungai Bakap, Penang. — Photos: CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
THE proposed amendments to the Drug Dependent (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act 1983 will no longer criminalise drug addicts but will treat them as patients instead.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the proposed amendments aimed at improving three key elements in drug issues.
“First, we do not view those involved in drug use, addiction, and substance abuse as criminals.
A silat performance at Dewan Chong Kuang.
“What distinguishes an addict from a substance abuser is that an addict has addiction symptoms, while a substance abuser simply takes the substance,” he said at the XPRESI GenTa (Generasi Kita) Programme - Drug-Free Solidarity at Dewan Chong Kuang, in Sungai Bakap.
He added that the amendment process would not be lengthy or involve bureaucratic hurdles.
Saifuddin said with the amendment, those who come forward voluntarily would be referred directly to National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) rehabilitation officers rather than hospital specialists.
Participants joining a group workout.
“The process will be faster, encouraging more individuals to come forward voluntarily.
“We no longer see this as a criminal element. They are not in a severe category,” Saifuddin added.
On June 26, he said the amendments had been approved by the Cabinet and cleared by the Attorney-General, and that the amendments were registered on the Parliament schedule.
The crowd waiting to savour durians during the programme.
More than 2,000 people comprising mostly youths attended the AADK event.
Saifuddin also flagged off about 1,000 participants in a 5km fun run.
Those present were also feted to about four tonnes of durians.
