KUALA LUMPUR: Efforts are being stepped up to curb drug abuse involving school-going youth, particularly the rising misuse of synthetic substances, says the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK).
Its director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh said the agency has a Narcotics Addiction Rehabilitation Centre (Puspen) for youths and students in Karangan, Kedah.
“The rehabilitation efforts there have received strong support from families, community leaders and strategic partners.
“We are working closely with various states as well to ensure the rehabilitation process at Puspen is effective,” he told The Star.
At Puspen in Karangan, Roslin said the agency collaborated with the Eduction Ministry to implement the “Sekolah Integriti” system with teachers seconded from the ministry.
“Last year, 20 clients from the centre sat for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination.
“We also introduced Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes. The courses include welding, air-conditioner repair and tailoring, under Institut Kemahiran Tinggi Belia Negara (IKTBN) and Nibong Tebal GiatMara.”
Ruslin said the agency also strengthened its integrated i-Pulih approach, enhanced collaboration with schools and institutions of higher learning and expanded community-based programmes to ensure affected youths receive comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation support, he said.
“i-Pulih covers biological, psychological, social and spiritual components and provides interest and career matching.
“To ensure young clients do not fall behind academically, the centre runs the Client Education Access Programme (PAPK), introduced in 2015 for those below 18. The programme enables them to continue their studies within AADK facilities while undergoing treatment and rehabilitation through an in-situ learning concept.”
Ruslin stressed that tackling synthetic drug abuse among youths requires sustained cooperation between enforcement agencies, educational institutions, families and the community at large to prevent long-term harm and safeguard the nation’s future generation.
“Synthetic substances have been detected in vape products, including synthetic cannabinoids often misleadingly marketed as ‘magic mushroom’ flavouring.
“Unlike natural mushrooms, these laboratory-made chemicals can produce effects far stronger than cannabis and may cause severe hallucinations, seizures and mental confusion.”
He also highlighted distinct rehabilitation challenges when dealing with youths abusing synthetic drugs, such as methamphetamine and ecstasy compared to opioid users, including heroin addicts.
“The differences stem from the varying effects of the drugs on the brain, their addictive properties and the user profiles.
“Among emerging concerns is the trend of substance abuse through vape devices and polydrug use among youths and students. Synthetic substances are easily concealed and often difficult to detect through conventional screening methods, making early intervention more challenging,” he lamented.
