Foundation calls for holistic approach to tackle drug menace
SIBU: Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation ( MCPF) has called for a holistic approach to tackle the drug menace following the introduction of more innovative and creative drugs.
In a press statement yesterday, senior vicechairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said the introduction of new drugs showed manufacturers and syndicates are desperate to secure new markets, especially among the younger generation.
“The government has cautioned the people that there is a serious threat posed by the spread of synthetic drugs which can cause users to behave like zombies.
“It has been reported that the new psychoactive substances can produce more dangerous hallucinations among the consumers who become overactive, aggressive and crazy.
“We need a holistic approach to tackle the drug menace including intensifying intelligence gathering like the Special Branch team when tackling other crimes,” he suggested.
Lee called on enforcement agencies to strengthen cooperation and work with integrity leaving no room for corruption and power abuse.
He reminded parents to monitor their children’s activities.
“Schools must also cooperate with the authorities and parents so monitoring can be done effectively and continuously.
“Instilling positive values including avoiding drugs should be done at an early stage, especially at home and school, so the younger generation will grow up with the determination to stay away from drugs,” he said.
Employers and workers must ensure their workplace is free of drugs because drug addiction could lead to accidents, injuries and illnesses that would affect productivity.
“Members of the community too should also act as the eyes and ears of the authorities and immediately lodge a report if they have information on the distribution and misuse of drugs in their neighbourhood,” added Lee.
Non- governmental organisations ( NGOs) should also increase their efforts to help raise awareness of drugs.
“Since synthetic drugs can now be produced using info from the Internet, they must be addressed through collaboration of various government agencies, NGOs and experts who have skills in related fields.
“We need to remember that apart from destroying the lives of victims and their family members, drug addiction can lead to various problems such as crime, social illness and spread diseases such as AIDS and Hepatitis,” he added.