A puff on a joint - then six months of forced rehab in a concrete cell

In Singapore, a young professional named Kim found himself in a difficult situation after trying to help his friends. Kim began using cannabis when his family life became complicated. Although things improved at home, he continued to use drugs and formed friendships with others who also used cannabis. One day, his friends asked him to buy some cannabis for them. Kim thought he was just being a good friend and did not charge them extra money. However, in Singapore, the laws regarding drugs are extremely strict. If you sell or give drugs to someone, it is considered drug trafficking, and the penalties can be severe. Kim's life took a drastic turn when one of his friends was caught by the police with cannabis. The authorities discovered that Kim was the supplier of the drugs, and he was arrested as well. Kim felt a wave of fear and anxiety wash over him when he learned he was being charged with drug trafficking. He never imagined that this could happen to him. In many parts of the world, cannabis is becoming legal for recreational use, but in Singapore, the laws remain harsh. If someone is found with just 15 grams of cannabis, they can be presumed to be trafficking. If they possess 500 grams or more, they could face the death penalty. This is a serious issue that raises many concerns. Although Kim is not facing execution, he could be sentenced to a lengthy prison term. The minimum sentence for drug trafficking is five years, while the maximum could reach up to 20 years. While Kim awaits his trial, his friends who used drugs with him were sent to a rehabilitation center for six months. In Singapore, when someone is caught using drugs, they are assessed to determine their risk of reoffending. Those deemed low risk can stay at home, but those classified as medium or high risk must attend a rehabilitation center. The Drug Rehabilitation Centre is not like a typical rehab facility; it resembles a prison. There are guards, barbed wire, and surveillance cameras everywhere. The men who are sent there share small cells with seven or eight other inmates. They sleep on thin mats on the concrete floor and have to use shared toilets and showers. The rehabilitation program is strict, and the men spend a significant amount of time in classrooms learning about how to avoid drugs. They are taught how to manage their thoughts and feelings to prevent relapse. One inmate named Jon shared his experience. He had a history of using methamphetamine and felt anxious about leaving the center. He knew that once he was out, he would have to confront the temptation of drugs again. Jon's rehabilitation program was mandatory, meaning he had no choice but to participate, unlike in some other countries where individuals can voluntarily seek treatment. Despite the program's challenges, experts believe it is helping some individuals. The government has invested considerable resources into supporting people in their recovery after they leave the center. They assist with job placement and provide ongoing support. However, some critics argue that the system remains harsh and fails to address the underlying issues that lead to drug use. They believe that the focus should be on rehabilitation rather than punishment. In Singapore, the laws against drugs are stringent, and the government maintains that their tough approach is effective. However, for individuals like Kim and Jon, the consequences of these laws can be life-altering.