| Wani Roslan |
DRUG abuse continues to be one of the main challenges plaguing families throughout the country.
According to statistics provided by the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF), some 145 cases of domestic violence were reported in 2017.
The Community Development Department (JAPEM) meanwhile stated that of the total number of domestic violence cases it handled in 2017, 31 per cent involved substance abuse, a 10 per cent rise from the 2016 figure.
Making known these realities was Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, at the launch of BASMIDA Forum 2018 yesterday.
“This trend is worrying. Hence, this challenge has been set as one of the focal points for celebrating National Family Day.
The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) is grateful for the contribution and efforts of National Anti-Drug Association (BASMIDA) as a strategic partner,” he said.
“In line with the second objective of the Family Institution Action Plan, ‘Solidarity and well-being of Family: Enhance Family Protection System through Strengthening Family Institution’, this forum can help raise awareness on the important role of family in eradicating drug abuse.”
The minister added that efforts to eradicate drug abuse among family members are critical in ensuring harmony and love between family members he said, within the household, efforts should be carried out continuously.
“The MCYS will continue to support the efforts made by associations such as BASMIDA in preventing drug abuse, to bring harmony among families and the community. To do this, we must first start by instilling good morals and love among family members,” he said.