An internationally-recognised programme established in 1952 to help drug addicts through peer support is available in Malaysia for free.

Malaysiakini spoke to Narcotics Anonymous (NA) Malaysia chairperson David K today to get a clearer picture on how the organisation operates.

"NA is a nonprofit, international, community-based organisation for recovering addicts to learn from one another how to live drug-free and recover from the effects of addiction in their lives.

"(We) teach basic spiritual principles such as honesty, open-mindedness, faith, willingness, and humility that may be applied in everyday life," he said.

David, 42 explained that NA is not connected to any political or religious group and does not advocate any belief system of any kind.

However, he said NA cooperates with government authorities in having the same focus in rehabilitating drug addicts by giving presentations in rehabilitation centres, prisons and hospitals.

"NA's primary approach to recovery is its belief in the therapeutic value of one recovering addict helping another by providing a suitable and reliable environment for personal recovery.

"Members take part in NA meetings by talking about their experiences and recovery from drug addiction," he added.

'Twelve steps'

NA originates from a support group network based on a drug rehabilitation programme called 'Twelve Steps' designed in the United States and is currently in 113 countries.

David, a former addict himself, said he has been clean and sober for seven years after joining NA in 1999.

"The only requirement for newcomers is the desire to stop using drugs and to attend as many of these free meetings as possible," he said.

He said the group meetings that lasts for an hour or more consist of five to 20 individuals per session and are held once or twice a week.

The fully self-supported NA Malaysia currently runs meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Kuantan, Penang and Johor Bahru.

David said those who would like more information about NA can contact him at 012-935 0780.