ABOUT US
Advanced Centre for Addiction Treatment Advocacy or ACATA is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) working to reduce addiction-related harms for Malaysians by promoting evidence-based public health policies and human rights-based approaches, through research and analysis.
Helmed by medical professionals, ACATA strives to increase local studies on addiction and the implementation of progressive science-based regulatory frameworks through advocacy, public awareness, education, and research dissemination.
OUR ROLE
ACATA remains committed to working with relevant health authorities and agencies to advocate for evidence-based innovations in addiction therapy. At the same time, we promote the use of science and research in developing sound policies in addiction therapy.
Tracking legislation affecting access to evidence-based products and solutions
Analysing relevant studies and reports produced by various international organisations
Undertaking local studies and surveys on addiction therapy
Encouraging responsible policy to improve public health
HARM REDUCTION
Harm reduction refers to policies and programmes that aim to minimise negative health, social and legal impacts associated with substance use such as drugs and tobacco.
Harm reduction is grounded in justice and human rights. It focuses on positive change and on working with people without judgement, coercion, discrimination, or requiring that they stop using these substances as a precondition of support.
OUR PRINCIPLES
Respecting the rights of people
Harm reduction is grounded in principles that aim to protect human rights and improve public health. Treating people who use substances with compassion and dignity is integral to harm reduction.
The use of substances such as drugs or tobacco does not mean people forfeit their human rights - they remain entitled to the right to life and to the highest attainable standard of health.
Commitment to evidence
Harm reduction policies are backed by strong, scientific based evidence that show harm reduction interventions to be practical, feasible and effective. Most harm reduction interventions have a strong positive impact on individual and community health.
Commitment to social justice
Harm reduction is rooted in a commitment to addressing discrimination and ensuring that nobody is excluded from the health and social services they may need. People should be able to access harm reduction services without having to overcome unnecessary barriers.
CONTACT US
For more information, please send an email to contact@acata.com.my
For any queries, please fill in the contact form below: