Anti-drug campaign starts in childhood

Tackling drug problems on Koh Samui requires more than just arrests, says the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), with cures ranging from early-childhood prevention programmes to methadone treatment and prisoner rehabilitation. Pol Maj Suriya Singhakamol, the ONCB secretary-general, made the remarks during a recent media tour in Surat Thani, where participants met local communities to showcase anti-drug initiatives. He said the island’s status as a tourist destination does not eliminate its drug challenges, noting heroin use remains present among certain groups of residents. The first stop focused on early childhood education, where the delegation observed classroom activities designed to strengthen nursery school students’ executive functions — the cognitive skills that support self-control, decision-making and problem-solving. The activities included loose parts play, storytelling sessions in the school library, coding lessons and science experiments. At Koh Samui Hospital, staff explained its treatment processes for heroin users, using methadone. The harm-reduction approach aims to reduce the impacts of the drug on users’ health while encouraging patients to enter long-term treatment. The hospital also cooperates with the Raks Thai Foundation to operate a clinic where heroin users can receive methadone treatment. Pol Maj Suriya said methadone treatment plays a vital role in reducing heroin dependence by easing cravings and withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision, allowing patients to rebuild their lives and return to employment. He also praised healthcare workers and civil society organisations for pushing for an effective and continuous treatment system. Areepak Ngernbamroong, the ONCB deputy secretary-general, said the visit reflected the agency’s proactive strategy, which relies on close cooperation with schools and local communities. She said sustainable solutions to drug problems require more than arrests and law enforcement to be truly effective. Ms Areepak said preventing substance abuse begins with equipping children with strong cognitive and life skills while ensuring communities are prepared to support vulnerable individuals, offer second chances and actively monitor local drug-related risks. The delegation also visited Samui District Prison to study rehabilitation programmes for drug-related offenders before their release. The group observed therapeutic community activities that encourage inmates to change their attitudes and behaviour through group-based psychological support and mutual assistance. They also reviewed vocational training programmes for male inmates designed to improve future employment opportunities. At the women’s correctional facility, the delegation witnessed activities under the “Kamlangjai” (Encouragement) project, an initiative under the royal patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati that combines vocational education with moral and personal development. Subscribe to our newsletters for daily updates, breaking news and exclusive content.