ISSUP Malaysia is the Malaysian chapter of the International Society of Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP), a global organization dedicated to promoting evidence-based substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery practices. ISSUP Malaysia serves as a platform for professionals and stakeholders in Malaysia's substance use field to network, share knowledge, and collaborate towards addressing the challenges related to substance use disorders in the country.
One of the key activities of ISSUP Malaysia is organizing training and capacity building programs. These programs cover a wide range of topics, including prevention strategies, treatment approaches, and recovery support services. In this regard, on 24th May 2023, ISSUP Malaysia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with MAHSA University at MAHSA’s campus in Bandar Saujana Putra, Selangor to foster a multidisciplinary approach to create a comprehensive and integrated response to substance-use issues.
MAHSA University is a premier private university in Malaysia that has established a strong reputation for providing high quality education and healthcare training programs. Founded in 2005, MAHSA University has rapidly grown to become one of Malaysia’s leading institutions of higher learning. One of the key strengths of MAHSA University is its emphasis on practical and hands-on training. MAHSA is the state of the art, technology driven simulation training facility providing truly experiential, innovative and immersive simulation education for its students in the Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing.
Through various initiatives, ISSUP Malaysia aims to promote the use of evidence based practices, raise awareness about substance use disorders, and advocate for effective policies and interventions. The tie-up with MAHSA University is timely as these events bring together researchers, practitioners, policymakers and other stakeholders to discuss emerging trends, share innovative practices and identify strategies for improving substance use services in Malaysia.
In addition to its training and networking activities, ISSUP Malaysia plays an active role in advocating for evidence-based policies and interventions. The organization collaborates with government agencies, non- governmental organizations, and international partners to contribute to the development and implementation of effective substance use prevention, treatment and recovery interventions policies in Malaysia.
The MOU between MAHSA and ISSUP Malaysia marks a pivotal collaboration in advancing research, training, conferences and exchange program in addiction prevention, treatment and recovery interventions.
The MOU between MAHSA and ISSUP Malaysia establishes a significant collaboration in the field of addiction prevention, treatment and recovery interventions. This partnership encompasses various areas, including research in prevention, treatment, and recovery interventions, training programmes on the basic and advanced universal treatment curriculum for postgraduate programmes, organization of conferences and workshops, as well as staff and student exchange programs. The collaboration aims to advance knowledge, skills and innovation in addiction studies, foster cross-institutional learning, and promote cultural understanding. Through this MOU, both organizations anticipate groundbreaking research outcomes, enhanced educational opportunities, and a stronger professional network in the field of addiction studies.
Overall, the collaborative effort between ISSUP Malaysia and MAHSA University will create a dynamic and inclusive partnership. A noteworthy aspect of MAHSA University is its strong industry collaborations and partnerships. The university works closely with leading healthcare institutions, government agencies and industry players. This collaboration provides opportunities for internships, clinical placements and research collaborations.