SARIKEI: The threat of drug abuse has the potential to affect social stability and disrupt community institutions if not addressed comprehensively and continuously.
Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the issue must be viewed holistically, encompassing aspects of health, social security and community strength.
According to him, drug abuse not only damages individuals, but also has a major impact on families and community harmony.
He said the history of the Opium War should be used as a lesson because the substance was once used to weaken a nation.
“This matter should be used as a lesson so that we do not repeat the same mistakes in society today,” he said when attending the 2026 ‘Randau Komuniti’ Programme at the Kampung Selalang Community Hall on Sunday.
The Kuala Rajang Assemblyman said that individuals involved in drugs usually suffer from mental illnesses that affect their ability to make decisions, in addition to being unable to safeguard themselves and their families.
In this regard, Datuk Len stressed that early action is crucial to address drug-related symptoms before they become more serious and difficult to control.
According to him, the community needs to be responsive to early signs and the courage to take proactive measures to curb the spread of the problem at the community level.
“Concerted efforts and collective awareness are very important to ensure that the drug threat can be curbed for the well-being of future generations,” he said. -UKASnews
