FMIPA UII – Two UII Chemical Analysis students are stepping up as pioneers on the front lines to prevent and combat drug circulation in Yogyakarta. Eriko Elsa Daje (Chemical Analysis 2020) and Ziyadatul Mustaghfiroh (Chemical Analysis 2021) began this role by registering and participating in the selection process for Anti-Drug Ambassadors. Registration was done by filling out a form, and selection was based on an essay assessment. The selection process left a deep impression on Ziyadatul Mustaghfiroh, as the theme of student resilience and mental health in preventing drug abuse closely related to personal experiences that she had never written about before. “There was a sense of relief after expressing those experiences in writing,” she shared. The selection took place from January 25 to February 2, 2023, with the results announced on February 3, 2023. A total of 25 participants were chosen as Anti-Drug Ambassadors of Yogyakarta, comprising students from various institutions such as Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD), Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY), UIN Sunan Kalijaga, Atmajaya University, Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII), Al Azhar Cairo, and Institut Teknologi Bisnis Muhammadiyah Grobogan (ITBMG).

After passing the selection, Eriko Elsa Daje and Ziyadatul Mustaghfiroh were officially inaugurated as Yogyakarta Anti-Drug Ambassadors 2023 on February 8–9, 2023. The inauguration was carried out by the Head of the National Narcotics Agency of Yogyakarta Province (BNNP), Susanto, S.H., M.H. The inauguration event also included an advocacy school themed “Prevention and Eradication of Drug Abuse and Illicit Circulation among Students in Yogyakarta.” This series of events was held at SMK Muhammadiyah 1 Lendah, Goa Cemara Beach, and the DPD RI Hall. In this advocacy school, participants received positive training on self-development and gained new insights into the dangers of drugs. “Until now, when I am being inaugurated, I have gained a lot,” said Eriko.

When interviewed, Eriko mentioned that the Chemical Analysis Study Program had provided valuable knowledge, including subjects related to Narcotics and Psychotropics Analysis. “It is only right to apply this knowledge for the good of society,” she said. Eriko hopes that by becoming an Anti-Drug Ambassador, she can educate the public about the dangers of drugs and contribute to the fight against drug abuse. “It is clear that drugs are a real enemy of the Indonesian nation and must be fought because they can destroy the future of our youth.”

Ziyadatul Mustaghfiroh, affectionately called Zee, had a slightly different motivation. She shared that her participation in the Anti-Drug Ambassador selection stemmed from personal experiences in junior high school. “During the student orientation event, a friend tried to slip a drug wrapper into my bag, but I noticed it and threw it away—only for the wrapper to be taken back again. Then, in 9th grade, that same friend tried to put ‘ciu’ (a local alcoholic drink) in my lunch drink, but again, I caught it in time. I also encountered several female friends who used drugs before midterms and every Sunday night. They often complained of headaches on Mondays due to partying the night before. These experiences moved my heart to become an Anti-Drug Student Ambassador, so I can take part in eradicating drugs. Secondly, as a Chemical Analysis student, we have a relevant elective course on narcotics and psychotropics, so this aligns well—studying a subject and applying it for good.”

When asked about her hopes after being elected as an Anti-Drug Ambassador, Eriko expressed her desire to educate the public, especially students, about the dangers of drug abuse. She hopes that even small actions can contribute to reducing drug misuse in society. “May this positive start lead to a drug-free Indonesia in the future.” Zee, on the other hand, hopes to carry out her responsibilities as an Anti-Drug Ambassador properly and meaningfully for her peers and surroundings as part of the effort to shape a resilient, mature young generation that can become the nation’s pillar in the future.