PERTANIKA JOURNAL OF TROPICAL AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE

This study aims to identify the intrapersonal and interpersonal characteristics of the injecting drug users (IDUs) who were involved in the Needle Syringe Exchange Program (NSEP). A total of 13 respondents took part in an in-depth semi-structured interview. Results showed that there were five intrapersonal characteristics of IDUs; (i) negative self concept, (ii) unwillingness to abstain from injecting drug, (iii) fear of being arrested, (iv) depressed, and (v) self-efficacy in practice safe injecting. The four interpersonal characteristics of IDU were (i) the practice of sharing drug paraphernalia, (ii) stigmatized by others, (iii) too dependent on case workers, and (iv) estranged relationships with family members. In conclusion, it is vital for IDUs to seek help from professionals such as social workers and psychologists for their positive survival.