Thailand Reverses Cannabis Decriminalization Amid Singapore’s Vigilance

Thailand’s decision to recriminalize cannabis has prompted Singapore to bolster its security measures. The shift reflects a growing concern over the drug’s potential impact, causing Singaporean officials to assess potential risks to the country’s safety.

Singapore Reacts to Thailand’s Policy Shift

The home affairs minister, Shanmugam, discussed Thailand’s move to revert cannabis laws. A recent order from Thailand’s health ministry now mandates a doctor’s prescription for any recreational cannabis purchase, effectively prohibiting its sale for recreational use.

Shanmugam mentioned Singapore’s focus on safeguarding against any potential spillover effects. Authorities are carefully examining the connections between drugs, crime, and terrorism, while sustaining openness and a business-friendly climate.

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“The nexus between drugs and crime, and terrorism, also needs to be looked at. Many different issues. We try to maintain our openness and our connectivity, and our business-friendly environment.”

—Shanmugam, Home Affairs Minister

Since Thailand decriminalized cannabis a few years back, Shanmugam highlighted that some individuals inquired about Singapore’s possible policy changes. A 2024 report indicates that drug-related offenses in Singapore remain a significant concern, with over 3,000 arrests made last year (Singapore Police Force).

Singapore’s Strict Stance

The Singapore government’s drug policies are not dictated by other nations’ actions, Shanmugam emphasized. Singapore considers scientific findings and social impacts before formulating policies, focusing on the best interests of its citizens.

“I am absolutely convinced, the Cabinet is absolutely convinced that the right policy is to be strict on drugs, and you can see, the people who asked for liberalisation, are shutting their eyes deliberately to what is happening around the world and the immense harm.”

—Shanmugam, Home Affairs Minister

A specific incident at a Moscow airport where a man, who was reportedly drug-affected, threw a child on the ground, resulting in critical injury, was cited by Shanmugam. He mentioned the problem of young children using drugs in countries that had decriminalized cannabis.

Maintaining a strong stance on drug control is backed by the population, Shanmugam asserted. About 85% of Singaporeans back these tough measures, which includes support for the penalties.

Singapore’s government cannot enact “zig-zagging” laws, he stated. The policy to keep drug use criminalized remains the correct approach, he concluded.