Kota Kinabalu: Students should never experiment with drugs out of curiosity or give in to peer pressure, as traffickers are constantly finding new ways to disguise illicit substances.
Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF) Sabah Chapter Chairman Tan Sri TC Goh said these young people, particularly those entering secondary school, must remain vigilant as drugs are increasingly being concealed in everyday products, including beverages and packaged goods.
“My advice to all youngsters, especially those in schools, is to never be curious enough to try any drink or substance when you do not know its contents.
“Never try to prove you are a hero because of peer pressure,” he said after launching an Anti-Drug Youth Talk at Sekolah Menengah Tshung Tsin Kota Kinabalu, recently.
The programme, jointly organised by MCPF Sabah and the Youth Wing of Ji Her Charity and Moral Uplifting Society Kota Kinabalu, was attended by about 500 Form One students.
Goh said Form One students were chosen because they are at the beginning of their secondary school journey, making it an ideal time to instil awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.
Besides talks by experienced speakers, students also witnessed a demonstration by the police K9 unit on how sniffer dogs detect narcotics.
“I emphasise to the students that drugs remain the country’s number one enemy. Some people may think the country’s biggest threat is something else, but drugs continue to pose the greatest danger.
“Drug traffickers have adapted quickly to technological advances by adopting increasingly sophisticated smuggling methods,” he said.
Goh said Sabah has become one of the transit points for drug syndicates, with narcotics recently being smuggled through cargo shipments, second-hand vehicles, courier parcels and even tea packages.
He also warned that certain drinks sold at entertainment outlets could contain illicit substances despite resembling ordinary herbal beverages.
“Do not take lightly any drink that you do not know. You may not realise it contains drug substances,” he said.
Goh said authorities also face challenges in keeping pace with emerging synthetic drugs because new substances must first be classified and gazetted under the Dangerous Drugs Act before enforcement action can be taken.
“Before one substance is gazetted, traffickers have already switched to another formula. That is why young people must be extra careful,” he said.
He also advised students to develop safe travel habits by packing and carrying their own luggage instead of helping others transport bags, warning that anyone found carrying drugs could face severe legal consequences regardless of their explanation.
“Always pack your own luggage and carry it yourself. Make this a habit whenever you travel. Never help others carry their bags, even if they are your friends. If drugs are found in your luggage, there is no excuse,” he said.
Goh said the anti-drug campaign would continue at Kota Kinabalu High School, Kian Kok Middle School and another school later this year.
The programme, sponsored by MCPF Sabah, will continue to feature officers from the police and the National Anti-Drugs Agency (Nada) to educate students on drug prevention.
He said he was encouraged by the enthusiastic response from the students, who actively participated in the session and were not afraid to ask questions.
