KUCHING: Petra Jaya MP Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has called for a new holistic approach to tackle the drug menace in the state.
“Compared to the past, the number of drug addicts has increased significantly, and drugs are being distributed like chocolates,” he pointed out in his speech when representing the chief minister’s wife Datuk Amar Jumaani Tuanku Bujang at the launching of the Drug Addicts Cure and Care Rehabilitation Centre Complex Fund here last Friday night.
The event, held in conjunction with Abadi Welfare Association (Abadi) Charity Dinner 2019, took place at Dewan Majma Tuanku Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah.
“Although a lot of efforts have been taken to combat the country’s number one enemy, the drug menace has not been overcome,” added Fadillah.
He voiced out the need for the society to tackle the issue together.
“From the context of society, we should play our role in reporting to the relevant authorities any suspicious activities or individuals involved in the selling or supplying of drugs.
“We need to cut off the supply chain and this can be done effectively at the local community-level.
“Another important thing is to help the drug addicts by approaching them and offering them help instead of isolating them.
“This is what Abadi is doing. That is why we should fully support Abadi,” he said.
Besides raising funds for Abadi’s activities, the event last Friday also aimed to introduce Yayasan Salam Malaysia (Salam), a non-governmental voluntary organisation.
Abadi is the first religion-based NGO to provide rehabilitation programmes and services for drug addicts in Sarawak. It currently manages 120 drug addicts who came voluntarily to it for help. Abadi aims to raise RM10 million for its activities.
Among those present were Tupong assemblyman and Abadi’s patron Fazzrudin Abd Rahman, Abadi’s advisor Azmi Shaari, Abadi’s director Afendi Udin, Abadi’s chairman Rosita Aki and Salam board of trustees member Datuk Mior Kamarulbaid Mior Shahid.
