Tackling drug use head-on

While the drug situation in Singapore has improved, according to the latest Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) figures, two-thirds of new abusers arrested were below the age of 30.

The proportion did decrease slightly, from about 69 per cent in 2014 to 64 per cent last year, but CNB said it is still significant. This concern was also highlighted two years ago, against the backdrop of the rise and ease of online drug trafficking.

A National Council Against Drug Abuse (NCADA) survey released last year also showed a softening of attitudes towards drugs. Results showed that in 2016, 16 per cent of those aged 13 to 21 had a "liberal" attitude towards drugs, compared with just 11 per cent in 2013. This meant that more young people agreed with statements like "It is all right to try drugs for a new experience" and "I do not mind trying drugs when I am overseas".

As the authorities try to work against the rise of online peddling of drugs and drug-related products, the problem of young people dabbling in drugs must be tackled head-on with preventive drug education and, more importantly, through parental and peer influence.

The NCADA survey showed that nine in 10 teenagers who had conversations with their parents about drugs said it helped them stay clean, but only one in two teens has had such talks.

While it might seem easier to leave preventive drug education to the authorities and schools, parents must recognise the need to broach such topics, especially if they have a positive relationship with their child.

Last year, CNB also tapped positive influencers, like national footballers and celebrities, who have impact in capturing youth's attention and shaping their attitudes and behaviours, to promote the anti-drug cause.

The good news is that fewer drug abusers were nabbed last year, down from 3,265 in 2016 to 3,089 in 2017. The total number of new abusers arrested also fell by 7 per cent, from 1,348 in 2016 to 1,249 last year.