KUCHING: More effective and targeted public re-education must be done to eradicate drug abuse.
Sarawak Patriots Association (SPA) chairman Datuk Lau Pang Heng said the tendency of using drugs as a coping mechanism against stress was increasing.
“The rise of drug users among professional groups in Malaysia is also on the rise,” he said in his comments on cops caught for involvement in drugs.
He said in Malaysia, opiates are the most commonly abused drugs, followed by cannabis and amphetamine-based stimulants, such as Adderall — a drug used to treat patients diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactive disorder.
“Research showed that in Malaysia drug abuse is attributed to mostly family factors such as parental behaviour, family relationships, home atmosphere and economic standing,” he pointed out.
Therefore, he said efforts should be made to minimise the negative influence of drug abuse among teenagers and adults.
“The government or schools can establish compulsory courses for students to educate them on the negative consequences of drugs and substance abuse.
“Everybody should be made aware of the possible impacts of drug addiction; so that their curiosity can be nipped in the bud before it ruins their lives. Holding public awareness programmes is a good start to eliminate drug abuse,” he said.
He said drug abuse normally begins when there is social pressure to belong, to be accepted, and to be part of a social group.
“As mandated by our Malaysian law, identified drug abusers are sent for compulsory rehabilitation and treatment programmes for two years.
“And according to Malaysian Psychiatric Association, treatment programmes cost the government approximately RM3,000 per month for each addict, which translates to a staggering RM300 million annually,” he said.
The government can reduce fund spent on drugs rehabilitation, he said that is by educating the young ones or adults concerning the danger of consuming illicit drugs.
On July 29, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Abdul Hamid Bador said about 30 police personnel have been detained for drug-related offences this year.
“I am disappointed that my own men are being arrested each week for drug offences. And many of them are
methamphetamine users.”
