Teen’s Life Transformed Through Rehabilitation After Kpod Incident

A 17-year-old in Singapore, referred to as Wei Qiang (not his real name), faced a life-altering moment after being caught with a drug-laced vape known as a Kpod. This incident occurred during a staycation in September 2025 with friends when authorities discovered the pod in his school bag during a police check. Wei Qiang claimed the pod was not his, but he admitted to previously trying Kpods twice in the past year. Rather than receiving a fine of S$500 (US$390), he was directed to a rehabilitation programme designed to assist young individuals struggling with substance use.

A Wake-Up Call

Wei Qiang’s experience marked the beginning of a significant transformation. Prior to this incident, he had been associating with peers who encouraged risky behaviors, such as sneaking into clubs and staying out late. Reflecting on his choices, he stated, “I feel like that was the last straw. Lucky I got caught there. I feel like I needed the punishment, then I would learn my lesson.” His admission led him to participate in a three-month rehabilitation programme under the Youth Enhanced Supervision Scheme, aimed at helping first-time youth abusers.

During two interviews with Channel News Asia in November and December, Wei Qiang detailed his rehabilitation journey and the strong relationship he developed with his case worker, Mr. Franz Lowe, from the Singapore Children’s Society.

From Anger to Understanding

The initial response from his parents was one of anger and disbelief. They had previously warned him against engaging with such substances. After being officially referred to the programme on September 22, 2025, Wei Qiang began his sessions three days later. His mother attended the first session, creating a tense atmosphere filled with conflict over concerns for her son’s future.

Mr. Lowe noted the palpable tension during their first meeting. “I was a little bit nervous when I saw him for the first time,” he shared. As the sessions progressed, the dynamic changed. Without his mother present at the second session, Wei Qiang opened up more, leading to laughter and a growing rapport between the two. “I just enjoy telling people about myself, my days, and just telling them about my thoughts,” he explained.

The rehabilitation programme focused on core issues such as emotion management and relapse prevention. Approximately 85 percent of the sessions concentrated on these topics, while the remaining 15 percent included lighter discussions, often revolving around food and daily life, which Mr. Lowe found essential for building trust.

For instance, Mr. Lowe recommended dumplings from a local eatery, which Wei Qiang eagerly tried. These off-topic conversations helped facilitate deeper discussions about Wei Qiang’s life choices and the impact of peer influence.

Building a New Lifestyle

As the weeks passed, Wei Qiang experienced a significant shift in his lifestyle. He distanced himself from his old friends and began to form connections with more mature peers, opting for wholesome activities such as fishing and cooking. “It’s just more fun times, I will say, that doesn’t get me involved in trouble,” he remarked. This change not only improved his social activities but also eased the worries of his parents, who now felt more at ease knowing he was safe.

Wei Qiang completed his final session in mid-December, where he expressed gratitude for Mr. Lowe’s guidance. The bond they formed had grown strong, evolving from a professional relationship to one resembling that of a mentor and mentee. Wei Qiang described Mr. Lowe as “a friendly teacher” who offered valuable life advice without judgment.

The rehabilitation programme is part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Social and Family Development in Singapore, targeting youth substance abusers. According to Dr. Christopher Cheok, chief of the National Addictions Management Service, many youths begin using recreational substances due to curiosity or peer pressure, with some seeking escape from deeper issues.

Moving forward, Wei Qiang is determined to continue on his new path. “The chance of [relapsing] happening is close to zero,” he asserted, emphasizing his commitment to staying away from harmful influences. He is focused on his studies and aims to be a positive role model for those around him.

Mr. Lowe expressed pride in Wei Qiang’s progress, stating, “Any form of change is not easy.” As the two parted, they shared an understanding that their next meeting would ideally be outside the confines of a rehabilitation setting, signifying a successful transition into a healthier lifestyle.