Starting Point
The Narcotics Control Bureau is the primary agency responsible for enforcing drug-related laws, implementing drug treatment and rehabilitation programs for drug abusers and drug preventive education for society in Brunei Darussalam. The Narcotics Control Bureau also plays an important role in ensuring the proper usage of narcotics and hindering their abuse.
Noorhanani’s current designation is Senior Narcotics Officer and Assistant Manager of Counselling Services Unit. With 30 years of experience in counselling, Noorhanani has dedicated her career to providing support for women, youth, and families facing various challenges, particularly those related to drug abuse, financial instability, and family dynamics. Her work involves both individual and group counselling, tailored to help clients navigate their difficulties and build better lives.
Peace Journey
One of the key initiatives she has been involved in is conducting counselling programs for families, especially women whose spouses are struggling with drug abuse. Many of these women face immense emotional and financial stress, which often affects their self-esteem and decision-making abilities. To address this, the unit organises group counselling sessions where women can share their struggles and find strength in each other’s experiences, which include psychoeducational workshops aimed at empowering participants by teaching them about their rights and providing tools for self-improvement.
In addition to counselling, she works closely with family support programs that involve parents, spouses, and even children of those affected by addiction. Family plays a crucial role in recovery, and the unit strives to engage them. For example, the unit provides education and guidance through family support groups to help families better understand and support their loved ones during recovery. This often helps reduce the stigma around addiction within the family and creates a more supportive environment for rehabilitation.
Collaboration with community organisations and religious institutions is another significant aspect of the unit’s work. They align the programs with Brunei Darussalam’s cultural and religious values, incorporating approaches rooted in Melayu Islam Beraja (MIB). By integrating religious guidance into the programs, it helps individuals find strength in their faith while addressing their challenges. For example, they’ve held spiritual counselling sessions that resonate deeply with participants, offering them a sense of hope and purpose.
Success Stories
In her view, women play an essential role in addressing the well-being of women and youth because of their ability to empathise and connect on a deeper emotional level. As a counsellor, she has seen firsthand how women are more likely to open up and trust a female counsellor, particularly when discussing sensitive issues such as family problems or drug abuse. For instance, many of her female clients have shared that they feel more comfortable discussing their struggles because she can relate to their experiences and emotions.
She also thinks women bring unique perspectives and approaches to the unit’s work, which are particularly valuable in counselling and rehabilitation. For example, women tend to focus on nurturing and emotional support, which is critical in helping clients rebuild their self-esteem and confidence. In her work, she has seen how this approach has helped women in recovery regain a sense of purpose and direction.
For youth, women’s involvement is equally important. As mothers, educators, and role models, women have a significant influence on young people’s lives. In family counselling sessions, she has observed how a mother’s active involvement can make a profound difference in a child’s recovery. Women’s ability to nurture and guide helps create a supportive environment that fosters growth and resilience.
Personally, she believes that her role as a woman in this field is to inspire and empower others. By being actively involved in the well-being of women and youth, she can help them see their potential, understand their rights, and build a better future. Women’s involvement is beneficial and essential for creating a more compassionate and supportive society.