By: Zaki Salleh
IPOH: The National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) is taking seriously the emerging trend of vape abuse mixed with illicit substances, synthetic liquids and hallucinogenic materials such as “magic mushrooms” among school students and teenagers.
The trend is increasingly worrying, as these substances are easily accessible, difficult to detect, and widely promoted on social media platforms.
Perak AADK Director, Mohamad Nor Musa, said teenagers and students are among the most vulnerable groups due to peer influence, social media culture and a lack of awareness about the actual contents of the substances used.
He said the abuse of such substances can affect academic performance, discipline, mental health and the future of students if not curbed early.
“Based on reports received, there has been an increase in the involvement of underage students in vape and synthetic substance abuse over the past few years, including cases involving children as young as 11 years old.
“This is a serious matter and all parties, including families, must play their role in curbing this unhealthy culture,” he said.
He said this when met at the AADK and Perak Media Friendly Night event last night.
On the proposal to implement drug screening in schools, he said AADK believes a more balanced and practical approach should be prioritised.
“The main focus is not to punish students, but to help them through targeted screening, preventive education, counselling and psychosocial support.
“Parental involvement, schools, communities and relevant agencies are very important to ensure students do not get further involved in substance abuse,” said Mohamad Nor.
At the same time, Perak AADK continues to strengthen its community approach by implementing the Drug-Free Aspirational Village initiative (KABD).
The programme is carried out together with government agencies, local leaders and communities to create safer, healthier and drug-free environments.
Among the main focuses of KABD are increasing public awareness, strengthening community involvement and assisting at-risk groups.
