Joseph Schooling’s story of marijuana use in foreign countries raises concerns about the long-arm of anti-drug laws

**Zach’s Thailand Trip: A Dive into Cannabis Culture and Its Consequences Back Home**

While enjoying a holiday in Thailand, Zach found himself at the centre of a conversation that has sparked much debate in Singapore. The recent scandal involving Olympic gold medallist Joseph Schooling has raised eyebrows, particularly regarding cannabis use abroad. As Singaporeans, we are reminded that our laws follow us, even when we’re overseas.

Zach, a young man in his late twenties, ventured into a cannabis dispensary in Phuket Town and bought six puffs of cannabis-infused spliffs. It was his first experience with cannabis, and understandably, he felt a mix of excitement and anxiety. “I didn’t want to smoke up, but with cannabis so easily accessible here, it felt like a no-brainer,” he shared with This Week in Asia.

The ease of access to cannabis in Thailand has become a point of contention for many Singaporeans. With a growing public cannabis culture, the tension between Singapore’s strict drug laws and the younger generation’s changing attitudes is palpable. In fact, Singapore has some of the toughest drug laws in the world, with at least seven citizens executed for drug-related offenses.

The Misuse of Drugs Act 1973 clearly states that Singaporeans and permanent residents can be prosecuted for drug offenses committed overseas, treating them as if they were in Singapore. This law aims to prevent drug users from hopping borders to escape the stringent regulations at home. The Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) has emphasized that cannabis remains illegal in Singapore, citing its potential for addiction and danger. They argue that lenient cannabis policies in other countries have led to societal costs, as outlined in their fact sheet on anti-cannabis policies.

A Singaporean woman living in Thailand expressed her concerns, stating that local laws seem out of touch with evolving societal norms. “It’s always the same reaction to various issues,” she noted, preferring to remain anonymous for fear of backlash.

Joseph Schooling, who recently admitted to using cannabis during a short leave from National Service, has reignited discussions about mental health and personal responsibility. His heartfelt apology on Instagram resonated with many, as he acknowledged the hurt caused to his family and fans. “I made a mistake, and I’m sorry,” he expressed.

The reactions to Schooling’s admission have been mixed. While some view it as a “fall from grace,” others, including Minister K. Shanmugam, remind us that one misstep doesn’t erase a lifetime of achievements. The swimming community has rallied behind Schooling, advocating for greater mental health support for athletes.

As Singapore grapples with its stance on drug use, neighbouring countries like Thailand are moving towards decriminalization. Thailand has become the first Southeast Asian nation to remove cannabis from its narcotics list, leading to a surge in cannabis-related businesses. Tourists can now find pop-up shops selling pre-rolled joints and cannabis products, but the Thai embassy warns against bringing these items back to Singapore.

Despite the shifting landscape, Singapore remains firm in its approach. Shanmugam highlighted that increased availability of drugs poses more challenges for the government. The ongoing dialogue about drug use and legalization reflects a broader societal shift, as some Singaporeans begin to question traditional views.

As we navigate these changes, it’s important for Singaporeans to remain informed and aware of the implications of drug use, both locally and abroad. The conversation around cannabis is evolving, and it will be interesting to see how it unfolds in the coming years.