(RS24) Winding Road To Recovery : A Needs Assessment Study of People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) In Malaysia

Introduction:

People who use drugs (PWUD) are often stigmatised, with condemnatory language reference and the discriminatory actions by public and institutions in giving access to their basic needs. The study aimed to examine the legal, health and social circumstances of this vulnerable population.

Results:

Forty participants enrolled in the study. The participants comprised of 43% male, 38% female and 19% transgender. Crystal meth was the most used drug, followed by heroin and ketamine. Fifty seven percent of participants admitted having been in jail mainly due to either drug abuse or selling drugs. Of these, 42% (n=9) admitted to continue using drugs in jail. Findings on their
experience with law enforcement revealed that 48% (n=11) claimed to be blackmailed by enforcement officers to avoid being detained, 43% (n=10) were beaten or tortured by police and 29% (n=7) had drugs been planted by police. In social and health needs aspect, services that the participants found to be challenging to gain access to were counselling, support group,
occupational service and vocational training.

Discussion/Conclusion: 

Most studied participants had been incarcerated due to drug-related offences with some experiencing intimidation in various forms. Their needs were unmet. This warrants collaborative effort of policymakers and service providers in ensuring access to pertinent resources i.e, legal aids, harm reduction services.