Julita (centre) presenting a memento to Jukip
KUDAT: Students should not dismiss experimenting with cigarettes and other harmful substances as harmless curiosity, as seemingly small choices can have lasting consequences for their health, education and future, said Sabah Minister of Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing Datuk Julita Majungki.
She said young people must understand the risks of experimentation and resist pressure from friends that could lead them towards harmful habits.
“Sometimes, something may seem harmless when we first try it, but we should not take lightly anything that could affect our health, education and future,” she said.
She said this when officiating the Siswa Resilien programme, “Bijak Memilih, Tegas Menolak”, at SMK Sikuati on Friday.
The programme was organised jointly by the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) Sabah and AADK Kudat, in collaboration with SMK Sikuati, and held in conjunction with Program Sentuhan Kasih Rakyat, Karnival Jom Malaysia, Jualan Rahmah MADANI dan Perkhidmatan Komuniti Bergerak Edisi DUN N.4 Tanjung Kapor on Saturday.
During the programme, two students, Hairul Kipli Budiman and Resse Tabitha Juining, were appointed as SMK Sikuati’s Anti-drug Squad Icon and Junior Anti-drug Squad Icon respectively to help promote anti-drug awareness among their peers.
A signboard highlighting the dangers of drug abuse was also installed at the school as a reminder to students.
Julita stressed that drug prevention education must begin at school level, with continuous support from families, schools, government agencies and communities.
She encouraged students to choose positive friendships, seek guidance from parents and teachers when facing difficulties, and participate in constructive activities that build discipline and confidence.
“Remember that one wrong decision can set back your future, but wise choices can open the way to success. Value yourselves, appreciate your families and work towards a future you can be proud of,” she said.
Also present was SMK Sikuati Principal, Jukip Yuroy.
