The National Anti-Drug Association (BASMIDA) organised an Outreach Programme in conjunction with International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT) 2023 at the Seri Kenangan Hall, Tutong Civic Centre Complex yesterday.
Some 300 visitors comprising Tutong District residents, government agencies, private sector representatives, and higher learning institutions’ students attended.
Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Director Dato Paduka Mohd Zalani bin Haji Ismail was the guest of honour.
Acting Tutong District Officer Mohammad Sofian bin Haji Basri and BASMIDA President Datin Hajah Masni binti Haji Mohd Ali were also in attendance.
Datin Hajah Masni delivered welcoming remarks followed by the recitation of Sayyidul Istighfar and Surah Al-Fatihah.
A talk by Assistant Head of Dakwah Propagation Division at the Islamic Da’wah Centre Haji Muskrisman Safari bin Haji Mustafa and a showcase of BASMIDA activities were also held.
The event aimed to raise awareness on the negative stigma and discrimination towards individuals and communities and educating participants on the various forms of stigma and discrimination.
It also served to encourage participants to practice inclusive minds, appreciate diversity and instil a sense of respect and dignity, provide sources and strategies for individuals to avoid suspicion and bias effectively, facilitate discussion on preventive measures to curb stigma and discrimination in the community, provide a platform for open dialogue and interaction and inculcate the involvement and solidarity of the community.
The event also encouraged participants to share stories, experiences and views related to stigma and discrimination, support policy changes that tackle systematic issues related to stigma and discrimination, provide them with information and sources to be involved in a meaningful policy effort, display the event as a positive initiative led by the community tackling urgent social issue, to place a foundation for continuous initiative, workshop or campaign that maintain the momentum of tackling stigma and discrimination.
IDADAIT 2023 carries the theme ‘People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention’. – Lyna Mohamad
