International Islamic University Malaysia, Malaysia

'MyPLACE' @ KOMITED

'MyPLACE' (My Post-Addiction Living Awesomeness and Capacity Enhancement) @ KOMITED is a collaborative effort between the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) via substance use disorder (SUD), Research Group & Sustainable Reimbursement Drug Policy Flagship, Kulliyyah (Faculty) of Pharmacy and KOMITED Malaysia. KOMITED Malaysia is a non-profit, community-based organisation sheltering those affected by drugs, ranging from children to the elderly.

The initiative intends to guide, educate, and assist this vulnerable population in overcoming their addiction problem, improving their understanding of disease/medication/ treatment, and leading a progressive post-addiction life.

'MyPLACE' @KOMITED focuses on the capacity building among the staff and clients of KOMITED Malaysia and other affected communities. It also symbolises that there will always be a ‘place’ for them in this world if they are willing to change for betterment and prevent any negative influences, especially those associated with illicit drug use, from re-entering and dominating their lives.

Top 3 Learnings

1. We learn that the consequences of illicit drug use do not only affect the individual drug users, but the whole community.
2. We believe that addiction is treatable and manageable with strong life-long commitment and motivation from various parties/stakeholders.
3. We believe that healthcare and education should be accessible to all including the marginalised and socially vulnerable community.