02-08-2025
Govt unveils rehab-focused anti-drug plan
Published on: Saturday, August 02, 2025
Published on: Sat, Aug 02, 2025
By: Sisca Humphrey Text Size: Shamsul pictured with attendees present at the event. KOTA KINABALU: The Federal Government is boosting drug prevention and rehabilitation efforts by establishing Drug Assessment Centres (DAC) and working closely with community-based groups. Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah warned of increasing synthetic drug use, including flavoured mushroom vapes, and called for urgent, evidence-based interventions. DACs mark a shift from traditional detention, focusing on medical and psychosocial assessments, in line with amendments to the Drug Dependants Act 1983 that prioritise rehabilitation over punishment. The Cabinet has approved the Anti-Drug Communication Plan 2025–2027 to promote behavioural change, accurate messaging and cross-sector cooperation, alongside the launch of District Community Synergy Committees (JSKD) to strengthen grassroots coordination. Shamsul urged NGOs to embrace digital tools for youth outreach, stressing that drug prevention requires the shared commitment of agencies, families, educators and the wider community. * 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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