Association chief warns drug threat’s evolving dangers
by Michael Ubam · Borneo Post OnlineSIBU (Dec 17): The fight against drug abuse can no longer be addressed by a single group alone, as it also requires the active participation from schools, parents, organisations and all segments of society, with each segment playing its role.
According to Sibu Division Chinese Community Chiefs Association deputy president Pemanca Datuk Jason Tai Hee, the drug threat today has become increasingly confusing, with dangers evolving into new forms that are harder to detect.
“Drugs are now disguised as sweets, vape liquids, party drinks, as well as beauty or energy products.
“This danger is no longer hidden in back alleys.
“It has entered our schools, social media platforms and even our homes.
“Therefore, parents, educators, community leaders, colleagues and friends must remain vigilant at all times,” he said in a speech for an anti-drug campaign at SMK Kwong Hua here on Tuesday.
Tai’s speech text was delivered by Penghulu Lau Hieng Wuong at the event, which was also attended by Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC) member Kevin Lau, the school principal Wong Ling Jiong, local community leader Penghulu Wong Ung, and the campaign’s organising chairman Kapitan Chew Hoo Kiong.
In the speech, Tai stressed taht as a community, all parties must work continuously and proactively through talks, workshops, outreach programmes and sustained engagements, including the responsible use of social media.
“Those struggling with addiction are not our enemies.
“They are individuals in need of compassion, support and rehabilitation.
“The real enemy is the network that profits from their suffering,” he pointed out, describing the fight against drugs as ‘a marathon requiring unity, resilience and long-term commitment’.
Meanwhile in his remarks, Kevin said he believed that students today possessed knowledge and also access to various sources of information.
“I believe that they are also aware that drugs are destructive and dangerous.
“Still, unless they personally encounter drugs, they may not fully grasp the extent of the danger, horror and the destructive power involved in them.
“In some cases, individuals may become involved unintentionally or through misunderstanding.
“Others may be influenced by their surroundings and decide to experiment.
“But what is more worrying is when someone wants to follow the crowd or current trends,” he said, citing the dangers lurking in electronic cigarettes or vapes.
“These are often regarded as modern and trendy products, with some questioning whether they are truly harmful.
“In reality, we cannot be certain of the chemical substances released or the hidden contents inside them.
“This is what is most concerning.”
The event also held a sharing-session by a former drug addict David Hii, who is now an anti-drug activist.