Fighting against drug abuse via film screening drive

Daily Express

28-06-2025

Published on: Saturday, June 28, 2025
Published on: Sat, Jun 28, 2025
By: Cynthia D Baga Text Size: Wong (centre) taking a group photo with the members of the Lions Clubs International after the press conference. Kota Kinabalu: Lions Clubs International is once again stepping up the fight against drug abuse with the launch of 'No More Drugs 1.2'. This is the second phase of its highly praised campaign aimed at empowering youth, tackling hotspot districts, and strengthening community-wide action against drugs abuse in Sabah. Organising Chairperson Nelson Wong following the remarkable success of 'No More Drugs 1.0' earlier this year through screenings for the impactful anti-drug film No More Drugs, which engaged more than 8,000 participants across major towns including Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan and Tawau in which the new phase seeks to continue the momentum with renewed focus and broader outreach. 'No More Drugs 1.2' will now expand its reach to communities in Kota Kinabalu, Keningau and Tenom. 'This is more than a campaign, it's a promise to our youth, our future and we are targeting 6,000 people this time. We are deeply committed to addressing the root causes of drug abuse and giving young people the strength and knowledge to choose a healthier path,' said Wong at a press conference on Friday. Wong said the screening and outreach sessions for the campaign are scheduled to begin on July 16 in Kota Kinabalu, with the first programme set to take place at St. Michael, at 2pm. 'On July 17, the campaign moves to Keningau with a morning programme at SJK (C) Yuk Yin at 9am followed by sessions at SJK (C) Yuk Kong and SMJK Ken Hwa (CF). 'A public screening will also be held that evening at 7pm at SJK (C) Yuk Yin. On July 18, the focus shifts to Tenom with events scheduled across multiple schools including SM Chung Hwa, SJK (C) Chung Hwa, Tenom Tshung Tsin Secondary School, SJK (C) Tsi Sin and Maktab Nasional. 'The final day of the campaign, July 19, brings the initiative back to Kota Kinabalu with screenings at SM Tshung Tsin in the morning, Yue Min in Penampang in the afternoon, and a final programme at Holy Seal, City Mall, at 5pm,' Wong said. According to Wong, the 'No More Drugs 1.0' left a lasting impression with attendees from diverse backgrounds including students, educators, and community leaders. 'The campaign delivered powerful testimonies and hosted interactive awareness sessions that sparked crucial conversations and real change in affected communities. 'In 'No More Drugs 1.2,' participants can also expect a wide array of youth-focused activities including forum, film screenings, school assemblies, and creative workshops designed to educate and inspire. 'The campaign will also work in close collaboration with local authorities, schools and NGOs to reinforce local support systems. 'Public service messaging will be shared through social media, local radio stations, and community bulletin boards. Free counselling resources and rehabilitation referrals will also be available at various campaign events. 'By continuing to provide safe spaces for open dialogue and awareness, Lions Clubs International remains steadfast in its mission to help young people in Sabah build a brighter, drug-free future,' said Wong, adding the campaign underscores its message with a powerful reminder, 'When You Say No To Drugs, You Say Yes to Dreams and Better Future'. Among the main sponsors of the campaign are the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS), WSG Group, Delicious Curry House Sdn Bhd, Sabah Publishing House Sdn Bhd, Crest Megaway Sdn Bhd, and Bazaar 2.0. Additional sponsors for 'No More Drugs 1.2' include TCT Trading – WareHouz, Ho Chiak Kopitiam, and Yit Foh Factory and Park Sdn Bhd. As Sabah continues to face challenges related to substance abuse, initiatives like 'No More Drugs' are a beacon of hope for many communities driven by education, compassion, and the belief that every youth deserves the chance to thrive. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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