Speaking at the second Youth Parliament sitting here yesterday, Selangor representative Muhamad Ridhwan Muhamad Rosli claimed that many people did not view using marijuana as substance abuse.

He felt the number of drug addicts could be reduced if the government controlled the use of marijuana instead of merely prosecuting people for possession and use.

Ridhwan, who also heads the Youth Parliament’s spirituality and religious committee, cited the move by some states in the United States and Australia to decriminalise and tax the use of cannabis.

Star Online reported that Saravanan felt legalising marijuana use was not in line with Malaysian culture or values.

He said young people were entitled to their opinion but one should not compare Malaysia to other countries when it came to drug enforcement.

“The government reminds (the people) that marijuana is still classified under the Dangerous Drugs Act. This decision is final.

“Each person has his own opinion, but I’d like to request that this not be spun negatively on social media.”