Do Not Misinterpret Handout Of Free Syringes, Condoms Call

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 5 (Bernama) -- The proposed needle exchange and condom handout programme for drug addicts to contain the spread of HIV/Aids has been misinterpreted by certain quarters that it has caused apprehension among the people over the government's intention in the exercise, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Dr Abdullah Md Zin.
He said the people should have confidence in the government's decision because the implementation of the programme would be controlled and in accordance with strict guidelines.
"We have been misunderstood because the needles, condoms and methadone are not given indiscriminately to families but to husbands and wives who are drug addicts," he told reporters after opening a seminar on management in Islam organised by the Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation (YPEIM), here Monday.
Abdullah was asked to comment on a report that the Health Ministry would be implementing a pilot project of the programme early next year, and the supply of methadone, a synthetic drug, to treat hardcore addicts starting next month.
Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek had said Sunday that the programme, which was originally scheduled for implementation in October, had to be postponed to draw up more systematic and effective guidelines and to train staff.
Abdullah said the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) had held special meetings with 1,400 religious officers, administrators, mufti and ulama as well as religious officials from various related agencies to explain the programme.
"Prevention is better than cure. Treatment is definitely costly and, if (the scourge is) allowed to spread, it can raise the cost of treatment that the government has to bear," he said.