KUCHING: Drug and substance addiction needs an integrated and holistic solution, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
He said drug addiction knows no boundaries of country, race, gender or socioeconomic status.
“Therefore, I invite the members of the One Stop Committee to deal with the drug issue, especially the members of the Address Drug and Substance Issues (MIDS) Bureau, to continue to be active and redouble their efforts to support the treatment and rehabilitation of families who have used drugs.
“The roles of our experts, social workers and community leaders in drug demand reduction should not be seen as merely formal responsibilities but a calling or a vocation for a noble cause for humanity,” he said.
He was speaking at the Phoenix Gala Award Dinner in conjunction with the International Recovery Symposium (IRS) 2023 at Imperial Hotel here last night (Sept 20).
While a balanced approach to drug demand reduction and supply control is desired, the impact of treatment and recovery care is significant, he said.
“Therefore, we need to invest in prevention and early intervention to mitigate the impact of addiction on individuals, families, and community well-being.
“Recovery is possible. Everyone who is on the recovery journey deserves unwavering support and encouragement from all walks of life,” he said.
Awang Tengah said that in order to ensure robust treatment and recovery care in the community, organisations, governments, and philanthropists worldwide should invest to provide appropriate facilities, resources, and competencies for robust drug demand reduction activities and programmes in the community.
“On the other hand, persons in recovery must voluntarily come forward to get help and change their lifestyle. Your commitment to the cause of recovery is important,” he said.
The Phoenix Gala Award Night saw 50 recipients receiving the Phoenix Rise Award, an award for those who have recovered and successfully sustained their recovery, while eight received the Phoenix Outstanding Award for their significant contribution to the field of drug demand reduction (DDR).
The award also saw two outstanding organisations in the DDR field, namely KOMITED Malaysia and Pengasih Malaysia receiving the Phoenix Soar Award.
