Penang: Kampung Dodol has been chosen as a Drug-Free Aspirational Village, making it a model village in efforts to strengthen drug abuse prevention at the community level.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Penang National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) director Roswati Apin stated that the Drug-Free Aspirational Village is a focused initiative introduced by AADK through the 'Jelajah Aspirasi Cergas Sihat' programme. The programme aims to raise awareness and educate the community about the dangers of drug abuse and other prohibited substances.
She explained that Kampung Dodol was selected due to the high compliance rate of clients under AADK supervision and the active involvement of the local community. This participation shows a strong commitment to supporting the treatment and rehabilitation programme. The village is at a moderate risk level, indicating that even if there are new cases, the number remains manageable. This demonstrates that the community plays a significant role in contributing to the effectiveness of efforts to ensure the area remains drug-free. Roswati expressed hope that Kampung Dodol can serve as an example for other villages and areas to adopt a similar approach in addressing drug abuse at the grassroots level.
Roswati shared these insights with reporters after attending the Program Kembara Antidadah 'Jelajah Aspirasi Cergas Sihat' at Masjid Jamek Hashim Yahaya Kampung Dodol. The event was officiated by Northeast district officer Ismasuhaimi Shariff and was also attended by Jelutong assemblyman R S N Rayer.
Apart from Kampung Dodol in the Northeast district, the Drug-Free Aspirational Village initiative for this year also focuses on the Central Seberang Perai District (SPT) with the selection of Taman Guar Perahu. The initiative will be expanded to several other identified areas next year.
Roswati also noted that the programme received an unexpected response, with attendance reaching around 500 people, surpassing the initial target of 300. This indicates an increasing level of public awareness regarding the issues of drug abuse and its dangers. She emphasized the importance of comprehensive cooperation from all layers of society to support the government's efforts in maintaining well-being and providing education and early prevention, especially to the younger generation.
Earlier, various activities were conducted in conjunction with the programme, including a community effort to clean the cemetery, a fun walk, free haircuts, a bubur lambuk arrangement competition, an azan competition, and a colouring competition, which were participated in by various layers of society and age groups.