Press Release Issued on 18 August 2004

Entertainer visits drug centre to learn from mistake

Entertainer Roy Chow visited the Hong Kong Jockey Club Drug InfoCentre (DIC) today (August 18) to learn more about the dangers of drugs.

The Commissioner for Narcotics, Mrs Rosanna Ure, who met briefly with the singer and actor, was pleased to learn that Chow took great interest in the facilities and encouraged him to spend more time using the reference material.

Chow was earlier sentenced to 18 months probation after a drug-related conviction. The Narcotics Division approached him through his probation officer inviting him to visit the DIC.

Mrs Ure asked Chow to learn a useful lesson from his mistake. "It is very important for young people to realise the serious consequences of drug-taking," she said.

"That is why the DIC, which opened to the public in June this year, was established -- to intensify preventive education efforts through this innovative and interactive approach."

Mrs Ure noted that DIC staff briefed Chow on the most commonly abused drugs in Hong Kong as well as their effects and dangers. He also watched some short films illustrating the physiological effects of each kind of drug on the body.

Chow told Mrs Ure that he was most impressed by the interactive movie about young people and drugs, the story line of which was adapted from real cases. Viewers can vote to decide whether or not the characters should take drugs.

Mrs Ure emphasised that though DIC has a wealth of materials, it is up to young people to reflect on the issue and to make up their own minds to stay away from drugs. In Chow's case, Mrs Ure noted that he was fortunate enough to have the chance to start a drug-free life again with the help of his family and the probation officer of the Social Welfare Department.

"The Government will continue to work with the non-government organisations, schools and parents to press home anti-drug messages and encourage young people to lead a healthy life. We are sure that the DIC will be a platform for teachers, parents and anti-drug workers to collaborate in the fight against drug abuse," Mrs Ure said.

Located on the Roof Floor, Low Block, Queensway Government Offices, the DIC opens to the public from 10am to 6pm daily. It closes every Wednesday and on the first two days of the Lunar New Year. For enquiries, call 2867 2831.

Ends