A deeper human struggle lies behind the growing concern over substance abuse among youths, said Peter Loy Chong, who is urging young people to rebuild their sense of self-worth and spiritual identity.
Speaking at the Easter youth celebration at the Civic Centre in Suva yesterday, Archbishop Loy Chong said the issue goes beyond drugs, pointing to a need for love, belonging, and guidance.
“There’s a lot of discussion about drugs, behind the drugs is a person that is hungry for love,” he said.
“Behind drugs is a person, behind that person is someone that needs love.”
Speaking through the Fiji Council of Churches, he stressed that building strong self-worth and a solid spiritual identity was key to overcoming the growing problem.
He said many young people who turn to drugs are often searching for acceptance and care, and called on families, communities, and churches to play a greater role in guiding them.
“A kid changing his ways depends on the love he is given.”
He warned that without consistent support and love; vulnerable youths remain at risk of falling into destructive paths.
