The government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) will soon introduce an array of measures to tackle the growing problem of youth drug abuse, Chief Executive Donald Tsang said on Thursday.

The comprehensive plan to be implemented includes seminars for teachers and parents, community programs that help youngsters ward off the temptation of drugs as well as a school drug testing trial scheme.

Speaking after a meeting with anti-drug officials earlier on the day, Tsang said four large seminars for teachers will be held this summer to improve their anti-drug efforts on campus, and the government will also provide them with online anti-drug resources.

Meanwhile, seminars for parents will be held at the district level and anti-drug community activities will be organized through the parent-teacher association network, said Tsang, adding that the first such seminar will be held on August 8.

The city will also set up an anti-drug hotline to offer inquirers professional advices.

In addition, the government has earmarked nine million HK dollars (US$1.16 million) for district-based anti-drug community programs in hope to draw youngsters to more healthy and interesting activities.

"I am very happy to learn many districts have already formulated their plans which involve sports and recreational activities of various kinds which appeal to young people," Tsang said.

He also noted the government is still in discussion with schools and parents in Tai Po on the details of a drug-test trial scheme to be implemented there in the coming school year.

(Xinhua News Agency July 17, 2009)