PAITAN: The Minister of Community Development and People’s Wellbeing (KPMKR), Datuk James Ratib urged those concerned to be sensitive to the evolution in drug abuse tactics that also improved with times.
He who is also the Chairman of the Sabah State PEMADAM, said the issue and problem of drug addiction among the community is not a new thing and it has spread with various sophistication in manufacturing and distribution.
“In this increasingly sophisticated age, drug manufacturing technology has also evolved so that in certain situations drug consumption can no longer be detected through health screening.
“Similarly, the methods to obtain drug supplies are now very easy, with just a touch of a screen on the mobile phone and SMS, the supply service could reach the hands of the applicant.
“In addition, pushers and dealers also take advantage by using drug mules as scapegoats to make profits,” he said.
James, who is also the Sugut Assemblyman, was speaking when officiating the Closing Ceremony of the ‘Tabah’ Program and the Paitan Small District Sayangi Keluarga Campaign Program held at the Paitan Small District Office Open Hall on Thursday.
The ‘Tabah’ program or ‘Tegas, Amanah, Berani, Adil, Harmoni’ (Firm, Trust, Courageous, Fair and Harmonious) and the Sayangi Keluarga Campaign Program are jointly organized by the KPMKR and the Sabah Women’s Affairs Bureau, PEMADAM, and in collaboration with the Paitan Subdistrict Office.
“The ‘Tabah’ Program is an awareness and motivation program for the local community about the dangers of drug abuse, while the Sayangi Keluarga Campaign Program is a specific program to expose the techniques and skills of caring for the elderly.
“This year, the implementation of this program began in Paitan Subdistrict and will be followed up to Ranau, Kunak, Kudat and Nabawan districts.
“I congratulate the Parent and Executive Committee for their solid commitment and cooperation in making the program a success today,” he said.
James also congratulated the Sabah State National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), UPPM N.48 Sugut and all those involved in organizing the Futsal Competition for the youth in Paitan.
Meanwhile, he said the life expectancy of the elderly is expected to increase every year, and this is a direct effect of medical progress, medical aid facilities and care awareness.
“Even though health facilities are getting better and some of the elderly do not suffer from chronic diseases, their physical weakness, their fading memories and their poor social conditions leave them exposed to various health and safety risks,” he said.
James added that with various challenges, especially children who are still working and diversity among the elderly themselves, makes caring for the elderly something difficult and very challenging.
“Therefore, caregivers must have the skills to be able to provide the best service to the elderly. The basic skills of caring for the elderly are the key to becoming a quality caregiver.
“In addition, mental and physical preparation is a requirement that must be emphasized by the caregivers of the elderly,” he said.
James said, the elderly or infirm parents who do not get the care of family members, will certainly be an issue and a burden on the community and the government.
“Therefore in order to repay the sacrifice, service and devotion of parents, the responsibility of family members, especially children, is a lifelong commitment,” he explained.
