Drug preventive education and rehabilitation programmes in Singapore

The drug situation in Singapore is considered to be under control now because of the successful adoption of its two-pronged strategy of both supply and demand reduction. This paper only discusses the latter which is carried out through preventive education, treatment and rehabilitation, and aftercare services. Drug preventive education and publicity aimed at the public and the students are mainly done by the Singapore Anti-Narcotics Association (SANA). How various methods and ways have been organized to heighten the awareness of the dangers of drug abuse is discussed. Drug abusers perceived as patients are sent directly, when arrested, to Drug Rehabilitation Centres for treatment and rehabilitation. Discussion is concentrated on both the 5-stage programme and the day release scheme. Also included in the paper is the aftercare service provided to the ex-drug addicts after completing the programme or the scheme by the SANA's voluntary aftercare officers either from the religious/secular groups or at the constituency level.