| James Kon |
THE community at large plays an important role in shaping a positive society which can influence people to live meaningful lives and protect their loved ones from getting involved in substance abuse or being laced with social problems.
Highlighting this and the important role the community plays in protecting children was Chairperson of the Awasi Anak Kitani programme Muhd Khairulhadi bin Haji Muhtaddir at the launching of the programme at the hall of IBTE Agro-Technology Campus, Jalan Wasan yesterday.
The guest of honour, Penghulu of Mukim Pengkalan Batu, Haji Tahir bin Haji Tarip along with over 60 people participated in the programme.
Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari as well as villagers from the surrounding area also participated in the programme.
“We have a role to play in ensuring the success of the country’s efforts to build a safe community for our children,” said Muhd Khairulhadi.
“We are fortunate that our young children are able to grow up in a community where drug abuse is not widespread.
“However we cannot take this for granted as we can see around the world how easy it is for children to grow up in environments where drug abuse is normal.
“This will have a corrosive effect and weaken the whole generation.
“We all want the same peace, prosperity, progress, good quality of life, equal opportunities for the people of Brunei. Vision 2035 aspires for Brunei Darussalam to become a country known for its educated people, who are highly skilled and able to live high quality lives in a dynamic and competitive economy,” he added.
A presentation on drug abuse and its effects on health was delivered by narcotics officer from the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Wasli bin Haji Tuah.
He talked about commonly used drugs among addicts, such as syabu (methylamphetamine), ganja (marijuana) and ecstasy, as well as inhalants.
He highlighted the danger of social media platforms, a favoured medium of international drug syndicates to lure or trick victims into becoming drug mules with the promise of free travel and other tempting perks.
An Internal Security Department (ISD) representative briefed the participants on the department’s responsibilities and tasks, including internal security issues.
This was followed by a representative from IT Protective Security Services (ITPSS) delivering a talk on tips in using technology wisely, including guidelines to monitor children’s use of information technology.
The programme is organised by the Community Unit of the Information Department with cooperation from the NCB, ISD and ITPSS.
The aim was to raise awareness among parents on the steps they can take to prevent their children from getting involved with drugs as well as safety issues in the country.