The Asia-Pacific Forum Against Drugs (APFAD), held in Singapore, marked a significant milestone in regional efforts to combat drug abuse. This biennial forum, organized by the Singapore Anti-Narcotics Association (SANA), brought together leading anti-drug practitioners, policymakers, and civil society organizations from across the Asia-Pacific.

One of the most notable highlights of the forum was the official launch of the Asia Pacific Confederation Against Drugs, a regional initiative aimed at unifying and strengthening collaborative efforts in drug prevention and rehabilitation.
A Regional Platform for Unified Action

APFAD serves as a cornerstone platform in the Asia-Pacific region for:

Sharing best practices in prevention, policy, rehabilitation, and enforcement

Fostering cross-border collaboration

Building resilience among youth and communities

Amplifying the voices of civil society and practitioners

This year’s forum saw diverse participation and rich exchange of knowledge and experience—an essential step in developing comprehensive and integrated approaches to drug demand reduction.
KKAWF’s Role and Contribution

The participation of the Karim Khan Afridi Welfare Foundation (KKAWF) was particularly impactful. Representing Pakistan’s civil society, KKAWF engaged with counterparts across the region to:

Explore innovative prevention models and strategies

Understand rehabilitation and reintegration frameworks

Strengthen regional networks for future collaboration

Bring attention to Pakistan’s challenges and youth demographics within the global drug narrative

KKAWF’s presence at APFAD reinforced its commitment to advancing evidence-based prevention and strengthening Pakistan’s voice in regional policymaking spaces.
Immersive Learning and Site Visits

Over the three days of the forum, participants took part in interactive workshops and field visits to:

Community Rehabilitation Centres

Correctional Facilities for Drug Offenders

The Singapore Drug Victims Remembrance Ceremony, a solemn event honoring those who have suffered due to drug abuse

These immersive experiences offered a firsthand look at Singapore’s model of combining enforcement with comprehensive rehabilitation and prevention.
About SANA – Singapore Anti-Narcotics Association

Founded as a Social Service Agency, SANA works at the intersection of prevention, rehabilitation, and community support. Operating in close coordination with government agencies, corporate partners, and grassroots organizations, SANA plays a dual role:

Supporting persons in recovery and their families through reintegration programs

Investing in long-term prevention, especially among youth

Each year, SANA reaches:

Over 2,000 individuals through rehabilitation and recovery services

More than 4,000 students and young people through preventive education and youth development programs

SANA’s work stands as a model of holistic and sustainable action, blending community outreach with institutional support.