BINTULU: The issue of drug addiction requires immediate attention and a holistic approach to ensure the continued well-being of society, said Jepak assemblyman, Iskandar Turkee.
He emphasised that this issue not only affects individuals but also deeply impacts families and the community as a whole.
“Drug addiction is not a temporary problem. It can persist throughout a person’s life, destroying individuals and damaging family relationships. However, if we succeed in helping affected families, God willing, the results will be much better,” he said.
He said this when officiating at the Special Briefing Programme for the District Headmen’s Bureau on Drug and Substance Issues (MIDS) for the Bintulu District at the ParkCity Everly Hotel here on Thursday.
In addition, he said that addressing this issue requires evidence-based and data-driven approaches, citing the MyKasih Community Capital Development Empowerment programme, which he introduced alongside the Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan during his tenure as director of the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK).
“This programme utilises an evidence-based approach and tailors intervention steps according to community data and needs. It aims to help affected individuals rebuild their lives while empowering families through moral, financial, and skills development support.
“This approach is more comprehensive because it does not only focus on individuals but also on their families, ensuring effective recovery and the welfare of the community is safeguarded,” he explained.
At the same time, Iskandar emphasised the importance of collaboration among various parties, including community leaders, government agencies, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
“Community support in reporting drug issues, providing support spaces, and assisting in the implementation of recovery programmes is greatly needed to ensure the success of these efforts.
“The public must realise that the fight against drugs requires collective effort. If we unite, we can break this chain of addiction,” he said.
Through programmes like MyKasih and holistic approaches, Iskandar hopes that more families can be assisted, creating a more harmonious and drug-free community.
A total of six headmen and 184 community leaders from the Bintulu District attended the briefing programme, which aimed to provide explanations and enhance understanding of the role and function of the MIDS Bureau as well as the latest approaches that can be implemented to empower development in their respective areas.
Also present was the Bintulu District Officer, Awang Mohammed Nizam Awang Ali Bohan.
