KUALA LUMPUR: After being reviewed by the Parliamentary Special Select Committee (PSSC), the Drug Dependants (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act amendments have been passed in Parliament.
The bill was tabled for the second and third reading by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail in the Dewan Rakyat on Thursday (July 18).
“I hope this bill can be unanimously passed, and the issues that arise can be discussed later, including when we determine the measures and regulations to implement this bill,” he said.
The bill was passed through a voice vote.
At a press conference later, Saifuddin Nasution thanked the MPs for unanimous support in passing the amendments.
He highlighted several aspects which differed, citing the transition phase where drug dependants will be sent for rehabilitation instead of imprisonment.
“It also won’t be solely at National Anti-Drug Agency centres but also private drug rehabilitation centres,” he said.
The Minister also pointed out the decriminalisation aspect of the amendments, saying this will further encourage those entangled with substance abuse to come forward voluntarily for rehabilitation.
Saifuddin Nasution said rehabilitation officers will now be able to certify if an individual is a drug dependent, following the amendments.
“Previously it was solely medical officers but now rehabilitation officers can do so too. The Act has never in any way put aside the role of medical officers.
“The reality is that there are medical officers and assistant medical officers at the agency’s offices nationwide either on a locum basis or stationed there,” he said.
For those who come in voluntarily, Saifuddin Nasution said the rehabilitation officer will certify whether they should be placed for rehabilitation.
“If the rehabilitation officer observes medical symptoms during the initial monitoring phase, the agency will direct them to medical officers.
“The role of medical officers is still there and necessary for the process,” he said.
Saifuddin Nasution also hoped that the amendments would ensure better treatment for drug dependants.
While the amendments were just passed in Parliament, the Minister said there are already the agency’s rehabilitation centres accepting individuals on a voluntary basis.
He added that the agency will also work towards increasing awareness for drug dependants to voluntarily come forward.
“This is their duty. Outreach programmes are carried out year-round.
“Their success rates are also close to 80%,” he said, adding that this can further encourage families and individuals to come forward.
On July 9, the Drug Dependants (Treatment and Rehabilitation) (Amendment) Bill 2024 was referred to the PSSC by Saifuddin Nasution after its second reading.
On July 2, the proposed amendments to the Drug Dependants (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act were tabled for first reading in the Dewan Rakyat.
