SIBURAN – The National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) Serian District has officially launched the 2026 edition of the Drug Prevention Education Programme (PPDa) at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Siburan Batu. The initiative aims to heighten awareness among students regarding the severe risks associated with drug abuse and illicit substances, fostering a safer educational environment.
The launch event featured an informative talk titled “Healthy and Cheerful Living Without Drugs and Illicit Substances”, delivered by Mr Stward Anyum Anak Joseph Juing. His presentation focused on the critical importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle and making positive life choices. He emphasised that building a strong personal identity is essential for students to resist peer pressure and avoid falling into the trap of substance abuse.
Mr Juing highlighted that early education plays a pivotal role in shaping character. By instilling values of self-respect and discipline at the primary school level, educators can help students develop the resilience needed to navigate challenges without resorting to harmful coping mechanisms. The talk encouraged students to view their health as a valuable asset that must be protected through conscious decision-making.
Complementing the lecture, Mr Fazeli Bin Ahmad and Mr Muhd Marizan Bin Umar conducted a comprehensive drug prevention education exhibition. The display provided detailed information on various types of drugs, their physiological and psychological effects, and effective preventive measures. The exhibition was designed to be visually engaging, ensuring that complex information was accessible to young learners.
School staff responded positively to the exhibition, noting its relevance to current student welfare concerns. Teachers expressed appreciation for the clear and factual presentation of data, which they can integrate into their own classroom discussions. The collaborative effort between AADK officers and school personnel demonstrates a unified approach to tackling social issues within the community.
SK Siburan Batu serves a diverse population in the Siburan area, part of the greater Kuching division. As urbanisation expands into surrounding districts, exposure to external influences increases, making proactive prevention strategies increasingly vital. The school’s participation in the national PPDa framework reflects its commitment to holistic student development beyond academic achievements.
The PPDa programme is a nationwide initiative coordinated by AADK to create drug-free schools. It involves a series of activities throughout the year, including talks, competitions, and community outreach. By launching the programme at the start of the academic cycle, schools like SK Siburan Batu set a tone of zero tolerance towards drug-related activities.
Parents and guardians are also encouraged to participate in these efforts. Open communication between home and school is crucial for identifying early warning signs of behavioural changes. AADK officials advised parents to monitor their children’s social circles and online activities, as digital platforms can sometimes facilitate access to illicit substances or harmful content.
The event underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder cooperation. While AADK provides technical expertise and resources, schools offer the platform for direct engagement with youth. This partnership ensures that prevention messages are consistent and reinforced across different settings in a child’s life.
For those seeking assistance or information, AADK has made several channels available. The agency operates a hotline at 1-800-22-2235, where individuals can seek advice or report concerns confidentially. Alternatively, callers may reach out via mobile at 019-626-2233. These services are designed to be accessible and supportive, removing barriers for those who might hesitate to seek help.
Further resources are available online at icari.aadk.gov.my, which offers guidance for enquiries and complaints. The main AADK website, www.aadk.gov.my, provides extensive information on national policies, research findings, and success stories from other districts. These digital tools complement face-to-face interactions, extending the reach of prevention efforts.
The successful launch at SK Siburan Batu sets a precedent for other schools in the Serian district. It demonstrates that with proper planning and community support, educational institutions can play a leading role in public health initiatives. The enthusiasm shown by students and staff suggests a strong foundation for future activities under the PPDa umbrella.
As the programme progresses, organisers plan to introduce more interactive elements, such as role-playing scenarios and peer-led discussions. These methods empower students to take ownership of their well-being and become advocates for healthy living among their peers. Such peer-to-peer influence can be particularly effective in reinforcing positive norms.
The involvement of local leaders and educators in Siburan highlights a growing recognition of the link between education and social stability. By investing in the mental and physical health of young people, the community invests in its own future prosperity. The PPDa launch is thus not just an administrative requirement but a meaningful step towards building a resilient society.
