MCPF urges parents to overcome stigma and seek AADK help for children involved in drugs, warning that concealment hinders rehabilitation and futures.
KOTA TINGGI: Parents overly concerned about social stigma are hindering early rehabilitation for children involved with drugs.
Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation’s Drug-related Crime Prevention and Rehabilitation Committee chairman Datuk Kamarudin Md Ali (pic) said addiction should not be hidden, as those affected need proper guidance.
He urged parents to take swift action by bringing children to the National Anti-Drug Agency for assistance.
“Parents need to be aware of physical and behavioural changes in their children,” he said on a Bernama programme.
Kamarudin emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in supporting rehabilitation efforts.
He called for comprehensive involvement from community leaders, mosque institutions, and family members.
Efforts should not rest solely on AADK and police but require collective community cooperation.
“Currently, 70% of inmates in prisons are involved in drug-related cases,” he stated.
He warned that continuation of this trend will not resolve the country’s drug problem.
Kamarudin advised parents to contact the nearest AADK office or recognised rehabilitation centres.
The MCPF offers district-level advisory services to help individuals access treatment.
“We do not immediately lodge a police report; that is a last resort,” he clarified.
MCPF and AADK collaborate on public awareness programmes like ‘FELDA: Desaku Mendunia’.
Such initiatives aim to increase awareness, particularly in rural areas.
They promote healthy lifestyles and nurture vigilant communities responsive to drug issues.
