THE Malaysian Anti-Drug Association (Pemadam) will work with the Perak police and National Anti-Drug Agency to conduct a urine screening programme for schoolchildren to curb their involvement in drugs.

Its chairman, Mohd Azlan Helmi, said a meeting would be held in January next year for the purpose.

“Our approach is not to punish (students) but to save them from the menace,” he said after opening the Perak Fit Mania Carnival 2023, jointly organised by Perak Pemadam and Perak Community Fitness Welfare Association, at the Sultan Abdul Aziz recreation field in Ipoh today.

“We also want to make them aware that they (students) still have a long journey and the need for them to engage in activities that benefit them.”

The carnival, attended by more than 300 participants, aims to instil public awareness of the importance of healthy living.

Azlan said more activities would be carried out by Pemadam to make the public aware of the dangers of drugs as well as the role and functions of Pemadam.

“For next year, we have outlined five programmes related to drug prevention. Our target is not only the youth but also people from all walks of life,” he said. – Bernama, November 19, 2023.