LETTERS: After four decades of waging war against drugs in Malaysia, we are not winning. In fact, we are losing.
The Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has expressed concern over this worrying trend.
According to figures presented by the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), there has been a worrying increase of 31.6 per cent so far this year in the number of addicts compared to last year.
In another report in the recent past, it was said that uncontrolled drug and substance use may be under-reported.
It said that of the population of 11,129,316 youth aged 15 to 40 years, the prevalence of drug taking among lifetime users was found to be 5.5 per cent.
It is obvious that we are not doing enough to stem the pernicious tide. And that also includes vaping among school children.
It is time for us to have a thorough review of our war against drugs to determine what is lacking and what more needs to be done to address the issue.
The most crucial role must be played by the enforcement agencies. Much has been done by the police and the drug enforcement agency to tackle the issue but much more remains to be done to deal with the problem at source.
There must be stricter penalties for drug pushers, especially targeting those who exploit youths.
These agencies must also work with medical professionals to establish intervention programmes for youths who are at risk.
Teachers have an important role to play.
They should be attentive to changes in the behaviour of children under their care, and provide guidance and support when needed.
In addition, schools should organise workshops and talks on the risks and signs of drug abuse among children.
There must be a collaboration between the Education Ministry and Youth and Sports Ministry to promote healthy recreational activities that keep youths engaged and away from drugs.
Let's not forget social media. Almost every child and teenager in this country has some access to social media which can be used as a platform for the dissemination of information on the long-term harmful effects of drug abuse.
Together, these stakeholders can create a supportive environment that educates, engages, and protects the younger population from the dangers of drug abuse.
TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE
Chairman
Alliance for a Safe Community
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times