Sepang: Ongoing support from the community and private sector is crucial in assisting former clients of the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) to reintegrate into society post-rehabilitation, thereby reducing the risk of relapse.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, AADK director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh emphasized that the lack of support, such as difficulties in securing employment and social stigma, may lead to a decline in self-confidence among former clients, causing them to give up.

Ruslin highlighted the importance of vocational training at the Narcotics Addiction Rehabilitation Centre (PUSPEN) and the necessity of continued external support, which could empower clients to regain self-assurance and successfully reintegrate into society.

He noted, "When they have a job and they are supported not only by employment institutions but also by family and society, the stigma against them will be less. When they do not face stigma, they have the confidence to continue living."

This statement was made during an interview with Bernama and RTM after the 2026 New Life Inspiration Programme, which was organized through a collaboration between AADK and Boustead Holdings Bhd, involving 90 residents of Sepang PUSPEN.

Ruslin urged more parties to participate in providing a second chance to individuals battling drug addiction, stating that it is a collective responsibility and not just the duty of AADK or the Home Ministry.

He further added, "Clients who are in PUSPEN will eventually leave. If we do not support them before they leave, they will go astray. By exposing them to the outside world, especially the private sector, and engaging them in activities, they will have new hope."

Boustead group managing director Datuk Dr Ahmad Sabirin Arshad echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that enhancing the skills of AADK clients ensures the optimal utilization of skilled human resources.

He remarked, "For us at Boustead and Royale Chulan, the greater impact is to ensure that this human resource is fully utilized." He noted the significant cost borne by the government in rehabilitating clients and pointed out that if they can return as skilled workers, it would benefit the nation.

He concluded, "Every year, the costs incurred by the government are substantial to rehabilitate clients. If we can employ them as skilled workers in Malaysia, it will help achieve the country's aspiration to become a developed nation."