KUALA LUMPUR: The Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) under the Prime Minister’s Department and related agencies will study the law on the sentencing of drug-abuse offences, says Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.
The Minister in Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) said the study will look into different perspectives, specifically the effectiveness of a medical treatment-based approach or rehabilitation approach used by other countries and whether it could be feasible in Malaysia.
Azalina mentioned that various ministries and organizations, including the Home Ministry, National Anti-Drugs Agency, Royal Malaysia Police, Immigration Department, Customs Department, Health Ministry, the Drug Prevention Association of Malaysia (Pemadam), and non-governmental organizations, have made efforts to address the issue.
However, she pointed out that the problem has not been effectively resolved and has instead led to other systemic issues such as prison overcrowding and an overburdened criminal justice system.
Therefore, Azalina believes that the existing approaches to the problem need to be studied and reviewed in line with international developments, as she stated in a press release on Thursday (Sept 14).
On Thursday, Azalina chaired an engagement session to study the laws on sentencing for drug abuse offenses.
The session involved representatives from the Home Ministry, Women, Family and Community Development Ministry, Health Ministry, academics, and civil society organizations in order to gather initial views on the need to review these laws.
Azalina emphasized that the unity government is committed to protecting the interests of high-risk groups, such as the vulnerable, the poor, and easily influenced youths, in this matter.
She also mentioned that the Deputy Minister (Law and Institutional Reform) will handle further engagement sessions on the matter, including focus group discussions.
In addition, Azalina highlighted that the unity government perceives drug abuse not only as a criminal offense, but also as a health issue that negatively impacts society’s socio-economic status.
She added, “The government intends to combine the efforts of all parties, including government agencies, experts, and civil society organizations, in order to seek a more effective solution towards a healthier Madani society in all aspects.”
– Bernama
Credit: The Star : News Feed
