KUCHING: At a school in Petra Jaya, the school field was buzzing with laughter and energy as children learned new badminton moves, swapped tips about healthy eating, and heard stories about why saying no to drugs matters.
For many of these young students, it was just another fun day at school. But for the volunteers of Squad Anti Dadah Kuching, moments like these are exactly where change begins.
The volunteer-driven movement, under the Agensi Antidadah Kebangsaan (AADK), has been quietly shaping lives in Kuching by tackling drug and substance abuse through the most powerful force they know, the people.
“Our mission is simple,” said Kuching Chairman Lee Chia Soon, as he watched the children play.
“We want to raise awareness about the risks of drugs, especially among the younger generation, while showing that life can be healthier, happier, and more positive.”
The squad recently teamed up with the One Goal Eat Right to Play Right programme, which brought together sports and nutrition education in a two-day event involving five schools.
That effort has now grown into something bigger. In June, a three-year Memorandum of Understanding was signed between AADK Sarawak, World Vision Malaysia, and the Sarawak State Anti-Drug Squad.
The partnership aims to expand Eat Right to Play Right across Kuching, blending the joy of badminton with lessons on nutrition and the dangers of drugs.
Lee sees this as a turning point.
“When we reach children at this age, we can shape habits and mindsets that last a lifetime. This can keep them away from drugs and build resilient, drug-free communities where families, schools, and volunteers work hand in hand,” he said.
The next step takes the squad into Kampung Haji Baki, where they plan to work closely with schools and young adults in areas where drug abuse remains a concern.
But the vision doesn’t stop there. Lee wants to see universities, colleges, and youth groups stepping up too, with students leading the fight as volunteers and role models.
“Empowering young leaders is essential,” he said with conviction.
“Real change has to come from the ground up, and youth have the passion and energy to drive it.”
Still, the challenge is real. Drugs remain accessible in high-risk areas, and pressures at home or in society can push vulnerable young people toward addiction.
Experts say that while awareness campaigns are important, prevention also depends on family involvement, school education, and early intervention before problems escalate.
For Lee, it comes back to the heart of the movement for it is the young people themselves.
“If we can inspire them to lead, then this isn’t just about fighting drugs. It will build a culture of hope, strength, and resilience for future generations.”
He requested anyone who wishes to be part of this growing movement can learn more about volunteering with Squad Anti Dadah Kuching at https://skuad.aadk.gov.my/
By Connie Chieng