by Theleaders-Online | October 23, 2019 1:12 pm
PUCHONG: The government is concerned about the rise in drug abuse cases among Malaysians youths, especially among Muslims.
Speaking at a press conference, Deputy Home Minister Datuk Mohd Azis Jamman said the government is clueless on why drug abuse cases are soaring despite various efforts to raise awareness on the matter.
“Even the National Fatwa Committee has declared drug abuse as haram. We are wondering why Muslim youths are still getting hooked on drugs,” he said.
Azis then urged religious scholars and corporate leaders to participate in the National Drug Prevention Society’s (Pemadam) efforts in raising awareness on the drug menace among youths.
“I plead with corporate leaders to utilise their budget allocated for corporate social responsibility programmes to help Pemadam in their efforts.
Azis also called upon opposition held states to help state chapter Pemadam in their efforts to combat the drug menace.
“I have heard complaints that certain states are not allowing Pemadam in their schools.
“I wish to remind everyone that Pemadam is an apolitical NGO. Please help us. We just want to educate our youths on the perils of drug abuse,” he said.
On related matter, Azis said that the Home Ministry still considers the abuse of ketum leaves and plating them as an offence.
While he concedes that ketum itself is not a problem, many are using the leaves with other substances, making it a potent addictive material.
“We already have drug abuse problems and if we add ketum abuse to it, imagine the consequences,” he said.
However, Azis added,” The Health Ministry is studying about the use of ketum leaves and once the results are out, we will discuss the matter in the Cabinet and the Parliament.”
By G Vinod
Source URL: https://theleaders-online.com/azis-govt-still-puzzled-why-drug-abuse-cases-are-rising/
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