Adeeba appointed to UN expert panel to review global drug policy

2026-03-16 - 07:34

Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman is recognised for her work in infectious diseases, harm reduction, and prison and public health. (AIDS pic) PETALING JAYA: Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman, president and pro vice-chancellor of Monash University Malaysia, has been appointed to an independent expert panel tasked with reviewing drug policies worldwide. The panel, established by the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs, will assess progress in global drug policy and submit recommendations ahead of a review scheduled for 2029. Adeeba, who was selected by UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres, said the review offers a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity to assess if international drug policies effectively protect public health and human welfare. “This is a rare opportunity to examine whether the international drug control system is fit for purpose and where improvements may be needed. “The panel brings together expertise from across regions and disciplines to consider how global drug policy can better reflect public health priorities, human rights considerations, and scientific evidence,” she said in a statement issued by Monash University today. Adeeba is recognised for her work in infectious diseases, harm reduction, and prison and public health, particularly in addressing HIV among key populations and people who use drugs. A former dean of Universiti Malaya’s medical faculty, she has served as principal investigator on numerous clinical research projects focused on addiction, HIV, tuberculosis and hepatitis C in the Malaysian prison system. She also chairs the Malaysian AIDS Foundation, where she runs a programme advocating health-focused drug law reform.