7 – 8 August 2024 – The 7th Meeting of the AIPA Advisory Council on Dangerous Drugs (AIPACODD), hosted by The National Assembly of Lao PDR was held in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR under the theme of “Strengthening the Role of Parliaments in Addressing Drug Matters for the Realization of a Drug-Free ASEAN”.
Malaysia was represented by the delegation from Parliament of Malaysia led by Hon. Mrs. Alice Lau Kiong Yieng, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives (Lanang MP), and accompanied by Hon. Mr. Willie Mongin (Puncak Borneo MP), which reflected Malaysia’s commitment to regional cooperation in combating drug-related issues, a position that the nation has upheld since it designated drugs as the country’s primary adversary in 1983.
During the country report presentations, Malaysia highlighted its thorough and balanced drug control strategy, which is anchored by the National Drug Policy of 2017. The recent legislative advancements were also highlighted, including the amendment to the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and the enactment of the Drug Dependents (Treatment and Rehabilitation) (Amendment) Bill 2024. These reforms mark a transition from punitive approach to one that prioritizes rehabilitation, in line with global best practices in drug control.
Malaysia’s presentation also illuminated the challenges faced, including an increase in drug-related arrests and the emergence of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS). However, the delegation reported noteworthy progress in demand reduction and treatment initiatives, such as successfully implementing the Mobile Recovery Treatment (MRT) service and the Community Empowerment initiative.
A key outcome of the meeting was the approval of a Draft Resolution on “Strengthening the Role of Parliaments in Addressing Drug Matters for the Realization of a Drug-Free ASEAN.” , which will be presented at the forthcoming 45th AIPA General Assembly which could potentially impact regional drug policies.
The meeting also reviews a proposal to rebrand AIPACODD into the AIPA Advisory Council on Transnational Crime (AIPA-ACT). Although the proposal garnered broad support, including from Malaysia, it was agreed that further deliberation and consultation with ASEAN bodies would be needed before moving forward with its implementation.
Malaysia will be hosting the next meeting, in conjunction with its 2025 AIPA presidency, showcasing its continuous dedication to regional drug control efforts. In his acceptance speech, Hon. Datuk Willie Mongin outlined Malaysia’s vision for the upcoming meeting, emphasizing the need to address emerging trends, strengthen regional collaboration, and explore innovative strategies to prevention and rehabilitation.
With the conclusion of the meeting, it was evident that Malaysia and other AIPA Member Parliaments remain steadfast to the goal of a drug-free ASEAN. Malaysia’s active involvement and leadership in these discussions underscore its pivotal role in shaping regional drug policies and promoting inter-parliamentary collaboration to address this complex, transnational issue.
