KBS ramps Up Anti-drug Efforts through Strategic Partnerships

KUALA LUMPUR, March 6 (Bernama) -- The Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) is intensifying efforts to tackle social issues among youths, particularly drug abuse, through an integrated approach and strategic cooperation with various agencies.

Its minister Hannah Yeoh said KBS is collaborating with Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and Kuala Lumpur Hospital (HKL) to develop holistic initiatives.

“As an initial step, KBS has engaged with PDRM to discuss trends and concerns regarding this issue,” she told a press conference after attending a briefing by HKL’s Psychiatry and Mental Health Department today.

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The briefing aimed to plan and enhance advocacy efforts focused on four key components, namely the effects of substance use, drug consumption patterns, available treatment systems and both outpatient and inpatient services along with intervention methods.

This programme is designed to be interactive, educating youths on the dangers of drug abuse, ways to seek help and the importance of psychosocial support through activities such as forums, simulations and digital campaigns.

Based on data received, Hannah said almost 50 per cent of drug abuse patients are young individuals aged between 15 and 30.

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“Through awareness materials, we want young people to recognise this as a dangerous trend, and we aim to empower parents and peers on how to seek help when they notice these symptoms,” she said, adding that KBS will also expand cooperation with other government agencies such as the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) and non-governmental organisations.

-- BERNAMA