Pubdate: Wed, 22 Jun 2005
Source: Borneo Bulletin (Malaysia)
Copyright: 2005 Brunei Press Sdn Bhd.
Contact:  http://www.brunei-online.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3514

SOCIETY NEEDS TO PLAY IMPORTANT ROLE

The leading agency in Brunei protects locals from deadly substances.
The war against drugs is one that has long been fought by nations
across the globe in hopes for a drug-free world and of protecting
people from such deadly substances.

Although total eradication of illegal drugs seems implausible, the
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, of which Brunei Darussalam
is a member, remains nevertheless resilient in its efforts. The
International Day against Drugs Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June
26 will carry the theme of "Value Yourself, Make Healthy Choices".

It reaches out to local community members of all ages and encourages
them to lead a lifestyle that is respectful of the body and mind. Not
only will an abuse or overdose of drugs lead to an addiction and
out-of-control nature, it might also cause a sudden death.

Teenagers are therefore persuaded to stay away from bad influences and
engage in activities like sports and religious functions or enrol in
youth associations.

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), founded in October 1988, has been
vigilant in enforcing laws as well as clamping down on intoxicating
substances among others.

The core strategy employed the NCB is a 'Supply and Demand Reduction'
implemented through several preventive measures as well as
strengthening ties with regional and international
counterparts.

The NCB also educates people and has so far been successful in
disseminating information, as well as promoting awareness on the
dangers of drugs, through its campaign, religious talks, exhibitions
and productions with Radio Television Brunei (RTB) to the target audience.

There are also joint efforts between the Parents Youths Movement
Against Drugs Abuse (GIBB) and the Preventive Drugs Education as well
as a provision of services under the Supervision Programme for
rehabilitated users.

According to the official statistics released, there had been a slight
decline of 3.6 per cent in the recorded recidivism rate (or repeat
offenders) from 257 in 2002 to 242 in 2003.

Repeat offenders are often caused by relationships with old friends
and unsupportive family members or unem-ployment problems and other
kinds of pressure. Some even put it down to boredom.

Under the Supervision Programme, counselling and guidance services
among others are given, as well as motivational courses in order to
prepare them for their reintegration into society. While most of the
responsibility falls on NCB, the society in general needs to play a
role. Not only can they assist in promoting awareness but they could
also lend a hand in the rehabilitation.

It is all about having a positive attitude. There is a need to focus
on this issue and think of results in the long-term.

Drugs abuse has a damaging effect on the population and the Sultanate
is no exception. Not a week goes without arrests involving drugs.
Crime rate will increase and peace would be threatened if it continues.

The NCB will hold a series of events at The Mall from 10am to 9.30pm
this Sunday to mark the International Day against Drugs Abuse and
Illicit Drugs Trafficking.
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MAP posted-by: Derek