69th Commission on Narcotic Drugs – Singapore’s national statement by Assoc Prof Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs and Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs

Mr Chair,

1. Thank you, and congratulations on your appointment as Chair of the 69th CND.


Drug Trends

2. Excellencies, the global drug problem is worsening. The number of people who used drugs in 2023 was estimated at 316 million globally, an 8% increase from the previous year. Methamphetamine abuse remains a serious concern for East and Southeast Asia, accounting for about 70% of all individuals undergoing treatment for drug use disorder.


International Cooperation and Reiterate our Run for 2028-2031 CND membership

3. No country can tackle the world drug problem alone, and Singapore is committed to working with the international community to address the issue.

4. Singapore underscores the importance of the three international drug conventions, as well as the mandates of the CND, the International Narcotics Control Board and the UNODC. We support the World Health Organisation’s mandate in reviewing substances and providing recommendations on international control.

5. Last year, Singapore announced our candidature for a second term on the Commission for the period 2028 to 2031. We want to continue contributing constructively through evidence-informed policies, in close cooperation with UNODC and fellow CND Member States.

6. In line with this commitment, Singapore sponsored a chapter in the World Drug Report 2025 and will sponsor a second thematic chapter in this year’s World Drug Report, examining the impact of drug use on public safety. We invite delegations to attend our side event tomorrow at 1pm, co-organised with UNODC, to discuss the adverse health impact of drug use.

7. Singapore also works closely with our neighbours in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). We reaffirm our vision towards a Drug-Free ASEAN and our zero-tolerance approach to illicit drugs. ASEAN will be commemorating the ASEAN Drug Victims Remembrance Day annually on 26 June, alongside the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, to raise public awareness and strengthen community resilience against the harms caused by drugs.


Conclusion

8. Excellencies, addressing the world drug problem requires our unwavering resolve. Singapore stands ready to play a constructive role, collaborating with Member States to catalyse action and protect the health, safety, and well-being of our peoples.

9. Thank you.