Drugs and Alcohol
Please note - Arrival in Malaysia. If you're suspected of using drugs, you may be required to take a urine test on arrival at the airport. This includes if you're travelling from a country where possession and use of drugs such as cannabis is legal. Penalties for drug offences are severe.
Participants who choose to drink alcohol are responsible for their actions at all times. Excessive drinking may be grounds for dismissal as it can affect the safety of the group, the community and/or the individual. Intoxicated students will not be allowed to participate on any TGS excursions or activities, and participants will not receive a refund for the missed excursion or activity.
The use, sale, or possession of illegal drugs by TGS participants is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from the program with no refund applicable.
Any violation of the TGS student code of conduct in relation to alcohol and drugs will be taken seriously by TGS and may be reported to authorities and/or the participant’s home University where applicable.
Using drugs or drinking to excess can impair judgement and result in poor decision making that can put you, or others, at risk.
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Think about your transport options – how will you get home?
Know your alcohol limits, and avoid venues where ‘cheap’ could mean ‘fake’
Watch for drink spiking
Don't do drugs – penalties can be severe
Take care of your mates, leave no one behind
Stay safe in the venue – know where the exits are in crowded places
Look after your gear
Watch out for scams – if it seems too good to be true, it possibly is
Avoid violence – walk away!
Stay in touch – keep your phone charged and make sure friends know where you are.
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Never buy, use or travel with illegal drugs when overseas. You're subject to all local laws and penalties in your destination, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. This can include the death penalty in some countries including many in SE Asia. Even small amounts of recreational drugs or some prescription medications can get you arrested or jailed.
One bad decision may result in years of your life in a foreign prison. In 2017 and 2018, over a third of Australians in prison overseas were jailed for drug offences. The Australian Government may assist with Consular Services but they cannot get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Don't assume you won't get caught, or that you might avoid the death penalty because you're Australian. The only way to avoid the death penalty for drug offences overseas is to never buy, use or carry drugs in a foreign country.
Even small amounts of drugs can lead to prison, with many countries having stiff penalties for possession of small amounts of illegal drugs. Even trace amounts of drugs on your body, clothing or luggage may lead to a possession charge.
Some countries also prosecute people carrying or using controlled prescription medications under their drug laws. Make sure your prescription or over-the-counter medicines aren't illegal in your destination country, and make sure you have a letter from your doctor and carry updated prescriptions.
Know what is in your luggage when travelling, particularly when you cross international borders, and don't carry any items for someone else. Don't leave your bags in public areas or with a stranger. Lock your luggage to protect it from tampering and theft from carousels or hotel staff.
Don't accept offers of new luggage or use bags that don't belong to you.
