KUALA LUMPUR: A more effective strategy is needed to make the country drug-free by 2015, said the Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF).
Its vice-chairman, Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said that current efforts aimed at eradicating the drug problem must be reviewed to ensure their relevance and effectiveness.
“It’s time for all organisations as well as the entire Malaysian community to work closely with the government with one mind to combat the drug menace and save our younger generation from the scourge,” he said in a statement yesterday.
According to Lee, drug addiction had been Malaysia’s number one problem for three decades.
“Drug abuse still poses a major problem to the nation, particularly those aged between 19 and 39 who make up 72 per cent of drug addicts in the country,” he said.
He also urged parents to adopt a zero tolerance stand against drug abuse, especially in preventing their children from falling victims to the serious social menace.
“The active role of teachers, parents and community in the battle against drug abuse is also vital and must be intensified,” he added. — Bernama