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Kota Kinabalu: The Smartstart School programme plays an important role in teaching children to say “no” to danger and negative influences from an early age.

Sabah Minister of Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing Datuk Julita Majungki said the programme, implemented through the collaboration between the Sabah National Unity and National Integration Department (JPNIN) and the Sabah Malaysian Drug Prevention Association (Pemadam), uses child-friendly methods such as storytelling, games, visuals and interactive activities to instil self-protection awareness among children aged four to six.

She said children are taught essential safety skills, including recognising strangers, rejecting suspicious items and informing parents or teachers when facing unsafe situations.

She stressed that early prevention education is crucial in helping children build confidence and resilience before being exposed to bigger social risks, including drug abuse.

Julita also called on parents, teachers and the community to work together in ensuring children grow up in a safe, healthy and positive environment.