THE community plays a vital role in preventing drug abuse, says state Agriculture, Agro-based Industry, Rural Development and Health Committee chairman Dr Afif Bahardin.
“The responsibility to prevent substance abuse among community lies not only in the hands of the government, but also is the responsibility of the community,” Dr Afif said during the launching of the ‘Reformation Carrom Competition’ (Pertandingan Karom Reformasi) at the BM City Mall on July 7.
Organised by the Drug Prevention Association of Malaysia (Pemadam), the tournament drew a few hundred participants, including those under rehab.
“I understand that they are a total of 20 participants in the process of recovering from drug addiction taking part in the competition. They represent the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) districts throughout Penang.
“Recently, the Ministry of Health has said that drug addicts must not be treated like criminals but they should be seen as patients who need treatment,” said Dr Afif in his speech at BM City Mall on July 7.
The organisers expressed hope that the competition would enable the participants to engage with various levels of society and also provide an opportunity for youths to engage in healthy activities.
Story & pix by K. Thaarshenii