Turning pain into purpose: Former client guides female drug addicts toward recovery

A former client of the Bachok Narcotics Addiction Rehabilitation Centre (Puspen), Nik Affezah Nik Ab Ghani, 45, said that the painful experience of falling into drug addiction in 2016 has made her determined never to look back. She has come to terms with her dark past and is focused on moving forward.

"When I was trapped in drug addiction, my faith was weak - I neglected my prayers, fasting, and other religious duties. Even the RM900 salary I earned from working at a bakery was never enough to support myself and my family, because I prioritised buying drugs.

"I lived a stressful life, and constantly argued with my husband until my mother-in-law discovered my addiction and reported me to the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK)," she told Bernama when met at the Bachok Puspen, recently.

Nik Affezah further shared that during her 17-month rehabilitation period, which began in June 2020, she gained valuable knowledge and skills. Her time at the centre was filled with beneficial activities, including religious classes, motivational talks, cooking, and batik painting.

"When I entered Puspen, I never felt alone, because my trainers and friends provided immense support and guidance to help me change.

"Alhamdulillah, after completing the rehabilitation phase, I finally found the life I had always longed for - living happily with my family, and going about my daily routine like any other person, free from drug addiction," she said.

Now a peer counsellor (PRS) at the centre, she believes that her past struggles serve as a powerful tool to guide and support other women trapped in drug addiction.

"There are challenges in helping them, but I believe that with continuous encouragement and guidance, they can stay on the path of change and avoid returning to drugs.

"My goal is to support clients, and motivate them to rise above their past and lead more meaningful lives," she said, emphasising the importance of family and community support in their recovery journey.

Meanwhile, Puspen Bachok director Siti Mariam Bebakar said that, to date, 166 clients from across the state have been placed at the centre to undergo rehabilitation as per their sentences, while also participating in structured activities and adhering to the centre's regulations.

-- BERNAMA