PETALING JAYA, June 23 — Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh has called for a shift toward online therapy and support platforms to address rising addiction among Malaysian youths, saying traditional “stay away” campaigns and face-to-face counselling are no longer effective.
She said many young people prefer the anonymity of digital platforms, especially when dealing with sensitive issues such as pornography and substance abuse. Citing data from the Institute for Youth Research Malaysia and the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK).
Yeoh highlighted a worrying increase in addiction cases among students, with the highest surge recorded among upper secondary students. She also advocated for a “second chance policy” to prevent a single drug offense from permanently ruining a young person’s future, emphasizing the need for empathy and reform rather than judgment.
