MIRI: The registration of more private rehabilitation centres (PPP) in Sarawak will significantly enhance the quality of treatment and rehabilitation services, helping to restore public trust, said Sarawak National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) director Abdul Hamediee Ibrahim.
Speaking during a visit to the non-profit organisation Kenosis Sarawak in Miri on Tuesday (Feb 4), Abdul Hamediee stressed that PPPs could serve as strategic partners in the state’s battle against drug addiction, fostering greater collaboration between AADK and private rehabilitation providers.
“Sarawak urgently needs more private rehabilitation centres, as the state currently has only one government-run narcotics addiction rehabilitation centre (PUSPEN) in Kuching, which can accommodate just 300 clients at a time,” he said.
He called for the establishment and registration of additional PPPs under Section 16 of the Drug Dependants (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act, highlighting that such centres would help to alleviate pressure on existing facilities and improve access to treatment for those in need.
Abdul Hamediee also noted that in 2023, AADK Sarawak had expanded the role of the Drug Recovery Committee (JKPD) by increasing the number of district JKPDs from 9 to 45.
This expansion has enabled greater support for clients undergoing community-based rehabilitation programmes, ensuring they receive continuous care and assistance in their recovery journey.
He highlighted that the Sarawak state-level Controlled Drugs Action Council (MTMD) last year approved a significant financial allocation to the JKPD, enabling the implementation of more treatment and rehabilitation programmes for clients in the community.
“With the involvement of all relevant stakeholders, we are optimistic that the Controlled Drugs 2025 target can be achieved,” he added.
During the visit, Abdul Hamediee also discussed the Drug Dependants (Treatment and Rehabilitation) (Amendment) Act 2024, which was passed on July 18, 2024.
He described the amendment as a major step forward in shifting drug and substance abusers from incarceration to treatment-focused rehabilitation.
“The new provisions allow greater access to treatment and rehabilitation for those struggling with substance addiction, empowering both public and private rehabilitation service providers,” he said.
Also present at the event were chairman of Sarawak JKPD Yusree Zainuzzaman, and district AADK officer.
