The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is committed to achieving a drug-free Singapore. The Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) is the primary drug enforcement agency in Singapore.
Singapore’s drug-control strategy is targetted at reducing both drug supply and demand. We adopt a comprehensive harm prevention strategy, comprising:
The Misuse of Drugs Act is the main legislation for drug offences. It provides for the enforcement powers of CNB and the penalties for various drug offences, including trafficking, manufacturing, importation or exportation, possession and consumption of controlled drugs.
The Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Act was passed by Parliament on 15 January 2019 to enhance the anti-drug framework and enforcement powers as well as strengthen the drug rehabilitation regime.
The Intoxicating Substances Act (INSA) provides the legal framework for inhalant offences, such as inhaling or using, supplying or offering to supply intoxicating substances. It also provides for the enforcement powers of CNB and the power to commit an inhalant abuser for treatment and rehabilitation.
Topic: Singapore’s Tough Stance on Drugs
Strong Support for Singapore’s Anti-Drug Policies
A 2018 survey was conducted on Singapore’s Anti-Drug policies and it was found that there was a strong support for Singapore’s anti-drug policies and tough stance against drugs. In addition, the public supports the mandatory rehabilitation of drug abusers and not legalising cannabis.
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Factors Influencing Drug Trafficking Behaviour
Drug traffickers are less likely to traffic drugs and reduce the amount of drugs trafficked if they are aware of the penalties involved.
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Topic: Impact of Drugs on Society
Drug Abusers are More Likely to Engage in Crime
Studies have shown a link between drug abuse and the tendency to engage in criminal behaviour and crime.
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Drug Abuse is Harmful and Imposes Significant Burden to Society
Drug abuse exacts a heavy price on abusers, their families and society. The cost of drug-involved crime and drug-attributable crime has increased over the years. As a result, livelihoods are lost, relationships are destroyed, and the wider community suffers at the expense of drugs.
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Harm Prevention is More Effective to Manage the Drug Problem
Singapore adopts a harm prevention approach as it is more effective in reducing the harm caused by drug abuse. It is our first line of defence in promoting a drug-free culture. Countries that adopted harm reduction approach overseas have faced negative unintended consequences and drug-related deaths.
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Topic: Harms of Cannabis
Pharmaceutical Products Containing Cannabinoids
Singapore adopts a zero-tolerance stance against illicit drugs, including cannabis. Cannabis, commonly known as weed or marijuana - is harmful psychologically, mentally and physically. The International Narcotics Control Board has cautioned against the risks of pharmaceutical products containing cannabinoids, and Singapore is concerned on the adverse short-term and long-term effects on public health.
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Cannabis is Addictive and Harmful
There are many short- and long-term impacts associated with cannabis. Evidence has shown that cannabis is harmful, addictive and can destroy lives, families and communities. Singapore’s drug control policies are underpinned by evidence and research. To date, there has been no scientific evidence on safety and efficacy of raw cannabis for medical purposes.
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