Pubdate: Mon, 01 Aug 2005 Source: New Straits Times (Malaysia) Copyright: 2005 NST Online Contact: http://www.nst.com.my/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3734 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth) EX-ADDICTS' CONCERT PROJECTS A HIT When a group of former drug addicts proposed a programme to inculcate positive values among youth early this year, many were sceptical. However, with the help of Kuantan Umno Youth and the Smallbike Club, the former addicts managed to organise the monthly programme. "It may not be as popular as Akademi Fantasia, but more youth are joining our mini concert every month," said Drugs Intervention Centre (DIC) president Rahman Bakar. DIC was set up by former addicts to help drug addicts stop their habit voluntarily at their two shelters here. The Lepak Positif (positive loitering) programme is held at the DIC centre in Jalan Teluk Sisek on the last Saturday of every month. Rahman said those interested in performing could practise at the centre, which provides musical instruments and studio facilities. Former addicts also share their experiences with the crowd, while volunteers distribute pamphlets on drug abuse and HIV/AIDS. Kuantan Umno Youth chief Mohamed Suffian Awang said the programme was so successful, the Kuantan Municipal Council had recently agreed to adopt it as part of its Local Agenda 21 programme. "We are happy that other local authorities are showing interest." Representatives of several local authorities have also visited the DIC shelter. With the recognition, Suffian hoped more companies and individuals would support the programme. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom