Apac NGOs form coalition to promote drug-free societies
SINGAPORE: (Bernama) Six non-governmental organisations (NGOs) from across the Asia-Pacific (Apac) region have formed a coalition to advocate for a more robust drug demand reduction programme and promote drug-free societies.
Known as the Asia-Pacific Confederation against Drugs (APCD), the coalition was launched on Thursday (May 15) at the biennial Asia-Pacific Forum Against Drugs (APFAD) 2025 here as it strives to share best practices, forge regional cooperation, and sound the alarm on the harms of drugs through concerted programmes and projects.
The founding members are Malaysia's Green Crescent, the Singapore Anti-Narcotics Association (Sana), the Association of Anti-Drug Abuse Coalitions of the Philippines, Hong Kong's Society for the Aid and Rehabilitation of Drug Abusers, Indonesia's National Movement Against Narcotics (Granat), and the Assistance and Empowerment Foundation for Papuan and West Papuan Community (YP2MP).
Singapore Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam, who launched the coalition, said the initiative would bolster international partnerships in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.
"APCD will also seek to have a voice at international platforms like the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (UN CND) to speak against the rising tide of liberal policies and misinformation on drugs,' he said.
Addressing the worsening global drug situation, Shanmugam said that synthetic drugs such as methamphetamine have driven a global surge in drug abuse. He also claimed that the loosening of cannabis restrictions globally is driving increased demand for drugs.
He cautioned against the influence of the cannabis lobby and the false narrative of cannabis as a "soft drug", driven largely by commercial entities.
"We saw this happening with tobacco companies. Cannabis companies are likewise downplaying the risks, driven by profits. They are also trying to entice the young,' he said.
Shanmugam said that just two months ago, the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) seized a haul of cannabis-infused chocolate bars and candies during an operation.
Shanmugam reiterated Singapore's firm stance against drugs.
"The people have a right to a society free of drugs and the government has a responsibility to safeguard this right.
"We take a harm prevention approach that combines tough laws and rigorous enforcement, robust rehabilitation programmes, and extensive public education,' he said, adding that the government enjoys the support of more than 85 per cent of the Singaporean community and civil society.
Application for APCD membership is now open to APAC NGOs.
"If more organisations join APCD, its effectiveness and voice can be multiplied,' he said.
Organised by Sana from May 15 to 17, APFAD 2025 brings together more than 300 regional coalition members, NGOs, community partners, overseas correctional officers, and local government officials.
Singapore has designated the third Friday of May each year as Drug Victims Remembrance Day to remember families, friends, and the wider community affected by drug abuse. This year, the day is observed on May 16. - Bernama
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