KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 15 — The Malaysian Drug Prevention Association (Pemadam) plans to establish a transit home for former female drug addicts as part of its efforts to offer support and education to this vulnerable group.
Datuk Jamelah A. Bakar, chair of Pemadam’s Women, Family, and Cure Bureau, said this initiative will address the issue of former female drug addicts who are often ostracised by both their families and the community.
“We believe a transit home is necessary as many former female drug addicts face isolation and lack direction, with no place to turn to,” she explained.
“At this facility, we will offer education and skills development, such as sewing classes, helping them build independence and contribute meaningfully to society.
Jamelah shared this during a tahlil and doa selamat held at Pemadam’s headquarters, in conjunction with its 49th anniversary. The event also feted 30 orphans from the Yayasan Basmi Kemiskinan Serendah, Selangor.
Meanwhile, Pemadam Media and Promotion Bureau chair Hashim Anang emphasised that the association complements the efforts of government agencies such as the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), particularly in raising awareness and providing drug prevention education to the public.
“We cannot leave AADK to handle information and prevention efforts alone. As non-governmental groups, Pemadam and the Persatuan Pengasih Malaysia will support the agency in spreading knowledge on drug prevention, starting in schools,” he said.
He stressed the importance of early prevention, especially amid increasing drug-related issues involving family members. He also called on the government to place greater emphasis on this matter to prevent the problem from spreading.
— Bernama
