USM PENANG, 14 July 2025 - The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Centre for Drug Research (CDR) hosted the ‘Bengkel Pemantapan Ilmu Bio-Psikososial’ on 24 June 2025 at the CDR/PPDU meeting room, USM Penang.

The programme was designed to enhance the knowledge and competencies of PUSPEN staff on New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) through a series of expert-led knowledge-sharing sessions.

The workshop gathered leading experts, researchers, and practitioners in drug rehabilitation and neuropharmacology, with the goal of strengthening the scientific and clinical understanding of NPS from various perspectives. These included emerging trends, chemical compositions, neurological impacts, and associated psychiatric risks.

The session began with opening remarks by the Director of PPDU, Professor Dr. Vikneswaran Murugaiyah. This was followed with several insightful presentations by Associate Professor Dr. Darshan Singh, who shared insights on the latest 'Trends, Motives and Challenges in Controlling NPS Abuse'. ChM Dr. Thiruventhan Karunakaran and ChM Dr. Nelson Chear then continued the programme with a comprehensive session on 'Chemical Perspective of NPS'.

In a collaborative presentation, Dr. Siti Rafidah Yusof and Dr. Juzaili Azizi explored the neurological impact of NPS under the theme 'NPS and the Brain: Blood-Brain Barrier Perspective – What Happens in the Addict’s Brain?'.

Other presentations that followed included Associate Professor Dr. Zurina Hassan’s session on 'Psychiatric Risks of NPS: A Neuropharmacological Perspective', and a lecture by Dr. Farah Wahida Suhaimi on 'Pharmacological Challenges in Managing NPS Toxicity'.

The workshop concluded with a dynamic discussion session, audience Q&A, and presentation of tokens of appreciation to the speakers. Attended by professionals from multidisciplinary backgrounds, the event aimed to enhance scientific discourse and the application of knowledge in drug treatment and policymaking.

This initiative is in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which promotes healthy lives and well-being, and SDG 16, which supports peace, justice, and strong institutions.

Text & Photos: Centre for Drug Research, USM