Buriram: "Sophon" is making strides in advancing community-based drug rehabilitation efforts by inaugurating a CBTx camp across six pilot districts in Buriram. The initiative, led by Mr. Sophon Saram, President of the Parliament and Speaker of the House of Representatives, is part of a broader plan to amend relevant laws, with a meeting scheduled for June 22 at the parliament.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sophon is spearheading the Community-Based Treatment and Rehabilitation (CBTx) program, targeting drug addiction in the districts of Lam Plai Mat, Khu Mueang, Phutthaisong, Na Pho, Ban Mai Chaiyaphot, and Nong Hong. This initiative involves collaboration among local administrations, public health sectors, police, community leaders, and the public, ensuring continuous care from identification and screening to full rehabilitation and community reintegration.
The program, under the project 'United Power, Love and Faith: Integrated Solution to Drug Problems,' recently commenced at Wat Suwannaram in Phutthaisong District. The event saw attendance from key figures including Mr. Nisit Wonghathai, District Chief of Phutthaisong, local police, and health officials, highlighting the broad support for this community-driven initiative.
The inaugural CBTx camp in Ban Pao Subdistrict engaged 40 participants, emphasizing the need for community and family collaboration in supporting individuals with drug addiction. Mr. Sophon highlighted the critical issue of drug addiction in an aging society with declining birth rates, underlining its impact on families, communities, and the economy.
A crucial meeting is set for June 22, 2026, at the Parliament, gathering officials from key ministries and agencies to develop comprehensive strategies addressing legal, preventive, and rehabilitative aspects of drug addiction. Mr. Sophon stressed the importance of ongoing support for those who complete the program, advocating for employment opportunities and improved quality of life to prevent relapse and ensure sustainable reintegration into society.
Mr. Sophon Saram emphasized that addressing the drug problem requires more than arrests or treatment-it demands empowering individuals to reintegrate into society with dignity and purpose. By investing in its people, Thailand aims to build a secure and prosperous future for the nation.