Exploring collaboration between S’pore, Brunei in fight against drug abuse

SINGAPORE: Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs Masagos Zulkifli said Singapore is keen to study a method one drug rehabilitation centre in Brunei uses to rehabilitate addicts.

During his visit to Brunei, Mr Masagos visited the Narcotics Control Bureau and the Pusat Al—Islah, a state—managed drug rehabilitation centre, 16 January.

Pusat Al—Islah applies a systematic therapy through counselling, vocational training, and bringing together family and community support for the residents of the centre.

The centre has so far enjoyed a lower recidivism rate amongst ex—drug abusers through this programme.

The four—day working visit was also aimed at exploring collaboration between Singapore and Brunei in the fight against drug abuse, particularly in applying the therapeutic community approach in the rehabilitation of drug addicts.

Mr Masagos also called on Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II Lim Jock Seng.

Both ministers reaffirmed the excellent bilateral ties between the two countries.

Mr Masagos has returned to Singapore.

— CNA/ck