Appreciating the Effective Strategy in 100 Days of Prabowo-Gibran’s Government in Eradicating Drugs

By: Maya Naura Lingga )*

The strategic steps of the Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka governments in 100 days show a strong commitment to eradicating drugs. The policies implemented not only target drug syndicates, but also prioritize a preventive approach and rehabilitation for victims of abuse.

Various parties consider this strategy as a progressive step that contributes greatly to creating a safer and healthier environment for the nation’s next generation.

The Chairperson of the Indonesian Millennial Guard, Cici Nurain Pandey, assessed that the policies implemented by the government today are real evidence of the seriousness in protecting the younger generation from the threat of drugs. Drug crimes have long been a serious threat that not only damages individuals, but also damages the social structure of society.

With the firm policies taken, the younger generation gets more optimal protection from the bad influence of drugs. The intensified anti-drug education program has increased awareness of the dangers of drugs among young people, making them more alert and active in voicing the anti-drug movement. A humanist approach is also an important aspect of this strategy. The government ensures that drug users, who are often victims, are not only punished but also given the opportunity to recover through rehabilitation.

With this approach, they can return to being part of a productive society. This rehabilitation program has been expanded to various regions by building more rehabilitation centers in collaboration with Islamic boarding schools, educational institutions, and health institutions. In addition, the use of technology in drug eradication efforts has increased the effectiveness of supervision and early detection of the circulation of these illicit goods.

The Coordinator of the Expert Group of the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Ahwil Luthan, emphasized that the war on drugs is asymmetrical and requires a comprehensive and sustainable strategy.

Strengthening the education sector is the main key to preventing drug abuse at an early age. The Ministry of Education is mandated to optimize the anti-drug curriculum at all levels of education, from elementary school to university. In addition, collaboration with youth organizations and social communities is also strengthened so that socialization about the dangers of drugs can reach more people.

In addition to prevention through education, supervision in vulnerable areas such as borders is also tightened to close drug smuggling routes, especially those originating from the Golden Triangle area.

International collaboration is increasingly strengthened to ensure that smuggling networks can no longer operate freely in Indonesia. This step is believed to have a significant impact on suppressing drug trafficking in the country. Strengthening in coastal areas and the east coast of Sumatra is the main focus because sea routes are often used by drug smuggling networks.

Rehabilitation programs for drug users are another main focus. With the availability of wider and more accessible treatment facilities, users have the opportunity to recover and avoid more severe dependence.

Ahwil emphasized that this strategy not only touches on aspects of law enforcement, but also provides solutions for victims so that they can contribute to society again. Awareness campaigns regarding the importance of rehabilitation are also being increased, so that the negative stigma against former drug users can be reduced.

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo also took aggressive steps in the effort to eradicate drugs by ensuring that dealers and distributors are given the maximum punishment.

Recidivist crimes are of particular concern, where perpetrators who have been caught repeatedly will not be given leniency. Strict law enforcement is expected to provide a deterrent effect and reduce the level of drug circulation in society.

In addition to law enforcement, the National Police Chief also emphasized the importance of increasing the number of rehabilitation facilities in various regions. Local governments are encouraged to play an active role in building rehabilitation centers in collaboration with educational institutions, Islamic boarding schools, and other institutions.

Another step taken is the activation of anti-drug ambassadors who come from influencers and former drug users. This approach aims to increase public awareness of the dangers of drugs in a more effective way and closer to everyday life.