Kuala lumpur: Efforts to address the country's drug abuse problem must be implemented through a balanced approach that combines firm enforcement with effective preventive measures, alongside treatment and rehabilitation based on humanitarian values and compassion.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Marhamah Rosli emphasized that while Islam clearly prohibits drug abuse due to the harm it causes to individuals, families, and society, those struggling with addiction should not be continuously punished or negatively labelled.
Marhamah highlighted the importance of understanding the realities and suffering of those battling drug dependency, noting the necessity of a balanced solution rooted in the concept of wasatiyyah (moderation), which avoids being excessively punitive or overly lenient. She shared this perspective during the National Recovery Convention (KKK) 2.0, where she also shared a personal insight after listening to a former drug addict's testimony.
At the event, Marhamah launched a policy paper titled 'Towards a Drug Policy Based on Rahmah and Maqasid Syariah: The Need for Drug Policy Reform in Malaysia'. This document was produced through collaboration between Pertubuhan IKRAM Malaysia (IKRAM), the Drug Policy Programme Malaysia (DPPM) under the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF), the Malaysia Substance Abuse Council (MASAC), and various strategic partners.
The policy paper recommends diversion mechanisms from the criminal justice system to treatment systems, restorative justice approaches, spiritual development programmes, and an integrated inter-agency referral system. Marhamah clarified that the proposed policy reforms are not meant to normalise or legalise drug use but to help guide individuals wishing to return to the right path.
She concluded by stating that the policy paper's launch does not imply government acceptance or implementation of all recommendations. Instead, it represents a scholarly contribution for collective consideration to enhance strategies in dealing with modern drug challenges. Marhamah also expressed gratitude to the National Anti-Drugs Agency, Royal Malaysia Police, the Health Ministry, the Prisons Department, and the Education Ministry for their roles over the years.