Misconception of Medical Cannabis in Singapore

TEMASEK POLYTECHNIC

PREPARED BY:

COMMUNICATING DESIGN ARGUMENTS

SABRINA NOOR SHAFIQAH SAMAD

2018

misconception of medical cannabis DISCOVERING THE FALLACY OF MARIJUANA IN SINGAPORE & THE SOLUTIONS TO DISBAND IT

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about writers Sabrina Noor is a Temasek Polytechnic student currently pursuing a Diploma in Communication Design. She is in her 2nd year and majoring in Branding where she excels in publication design, advertising and marketing. She is also proficient in Adobe software, public speaking and writing. She has worked with clients such as Toggle and Pet Lovers Centre where she provides strategies to further improve perception of these brands.

Fig. 1A

Shafiqah Samad is Temasek Polytechnic student currently pursuing a Diploma in Communication Design. She is a second year student majoring in Branding. She is experienced in digital software and hands-on work and is willing to go above and beyond. Brands like MakiSan and Pat’s Schoolhouse are a few clients that she has worked with to help evolve the public’s perception of these identities with ground-work and research.

Fig. 1B

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contents 1. Introduction

5. Current solutions 5.1 Synthetic CBD Research 5.2 NORML.ORG 5.3 Stoner Clean-up Initiative

2. About cannabis 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5

History of cannabis Medical cannabis Advantages Disadvantages Establishing cannabis in SG

6. Design solutions 6.1 Pros 6.2 Cons

3. Findings

7. Conclusion

4. Identifying the problem

8. References

4.1 Negative Portrayal in Media 4.2 Government Influence 4.3 Asian values & Religions

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Cannabis contains a psychoactive element called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and a non-psychoactive element called cannabidiol (CBD), the main component of medical cannabis. This helps alleviate symptoms naturally. In Singapore, it is illegal to consume THC, proving that CBD can be consumed. Singapore cannot move forwards without dispelling the stigma surrounding cannabis as the misconception comes from the media, government and Asian values. This leads to a social stigma, lack of discussion and the limitation of medical solutions. Starting the conversation with ‘Green Slate’ can be the first step towards generating awareness and help Singapore become more progressive.

abstract

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1. introduction

Cannabis is a taboo subject that is not taken lightly in Singapore and is known for its strict laws against the matter. This is understandable as the world, not only Singapore, views cannabis from a negative aspect due to its infamous mind-altering effects and influence. However, people are unaware of the medical benefits it provides and the number of real-life cases out there

that prove these advantages are real.

In this paper, cannabis will reviewed from an medical and unprejudiced point of view and point out the advantages, disadvantages, causes, effects and ultimately come up with a solution in a Singaporean context. This will beg the question - why is there a negative perception of cannabis in Singapore?

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2. about cannabis A PROPER EXPLAINATION

06 2.1 THE HISTORY OF CANNABIS Cannabis is an organic plant that comes from the plant called cannabis. It has ‘loose’ cannabis leaves, compressed blocks, corn cob-shaped, oil, etc. (Central Narcotics Bureau, 2017) It contains 2 ingredients called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the psychoactive ingredient that has mind-altering effects that the drug is known for. CBD is the non-psychoactive ingredient and is known to have medical benefits.

Cannabis has been around since 10,000 years ago and the legal use was extremely widespread in terms of both medicine and manufacturing items such as oil, fabric and

Figure 2A. Map of Asia. (n.a) (2016)

fuel. It originated in Asia and since then has travelled around the world. Once it reached America, it arrived along with the immigrants from the Mexican Revolution in 1910-1911. This was where the misconception of cannabis came about.

“Many early prejudices against marijuana were thinly veiled racist fears of its smokers, often promulgated by reactionary newspapers,” Warf wrote in his report. “Mexicans were frequently blamed for smoking marijuana, property crimes, seducing children and engaging in murderous sprees.”

Blaszczak-Boxe, A (2014)

Figure 2B. Mexican Immigrant.

(n.a, 2016)

07 2.2 MEDICAL CANNABIS Medical cannabis refers to the use of cannabis to help alleviate symptoms from physical, emotional or mental problems, however it may not necessarily eradicate such complications. An example would be the well-known painkiller known as Paracetamol that helps alleviate pain but not completely curing them of the complication (Saunders, D.).

Figure 2C. CBD Oil. (Kubala J, 2018).

2.3 ADVANTAGES OF MEDICAL CANNABIS Contrary to popular belief, cannabis has qualities that are beneficial to one’s health. Railton, D (2018) writes that it can help with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, cancer, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy. The CBD component in cannabis reduces the symptoms for these illnesses.

Kubala J. (2018) writes that in the human body, there exists a special system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS) which involves the regulation of functions including sleep, appetite, pain and immune system response. The main component of medical cannabis is CBD as it possesses pain-relieving effects. She also mentions that the CBD component in cannabis binds and interacts with the cannabinoid receptors in the ECS and reduces inflammation.

2.4 DISADVANTAGES OF MEDICAL CANNABIS

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There are a few disadvantages stemming from the use of cannabis. Railton, D (2018) also writes: “Daily (cannabis) use is believed to exacerbate existing symptoms of bipolar disorder among people who have this mental health problem. However, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine report suggests that among people with ho history of the history of the condition, there is only limited evidence of a link between (cannabis) use and developing bipolar disorder.”

In the same report, it addresses the fear of the risk of psychosis, including schizophrenia. However, there is a curious finding among people with such psychoses that “history of marijuana use is linked with improved performance on tests assessing learning and memory.”

Ultimately, one can learn from this report is that “the medicinal use of cannabis is likely not harmful to lungs in low doses, but the dose limit needs to be defined. Recreational use is not the same as medicinal use and should be discouraged.”

Curr Opin Pulm Med (2014).

2.5 ESTABLISHING CANNABIS IN A SG CONTEXT Singapore is known to have strict laws against consumption of cannabis. The consumption or possession of cannabis results in $10,000 fine and/or 10 years imprisonment. Trafficking, however, results in the death penalty. There are many campaigns held by government bodies such as the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) and Singapore Police Force (SPF) that promote an anti-drug society. There have been several pro-cannabis stands but most have been taken down. Due to the lack of these positive stands, Singapore has grown to have a strongly negative perception of cannabis and will stand in the way of the country’s progress towards being an open-minded and accepting society.

According to an e-mail by CNB, THC is a Class A controlled drug listed in the First Schedule of Singapore’s Misuse of Drugs Act. Another source by Health Sciences Authorities, the only way to test for drug abuse is if they look for THC, which is the mind-altering component of cannabis. However, medical marijuana only contains CBD and therefore does not defy any laws as it is not clearly stated if CBD is allowed to be consumed.

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3. findings WHAT HAS BEEN FOUND?

10 During the 7th to 10th of July, a confidential survey among 118 people were held.

The survey contained questions that assess the public’s opinion on cannabis, it’s effects and what they would do in the theoretical situation that it was ever legal. The response led to the discovery of the causes and effects of the negative perception of cannabis. 23.9% of our 118 respondents believes that cannabis is harmful. Understandably, 80.3% believes that cannabis should be a medical solution in Singapore. Even though such a majority believe that cannabis is not harmful, and the same majority believes cannabis should be a medical solution, this begs the question of why is there a negative perception in the first place.

Figure 3. Class photo. (Writer, 2018).

Due to this discovery, another confidential survey among 12 people was carried out. The survey posed a an open-ended question; ‘How does the negative perception affect the society?’. 5 respondents feel that it affects from the social stigma in Singapore. 4 respondents feel that it affects the discussion surrounding it and 3 respondents feel that it affects Singapore’s growth of medical solutions.

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4. identifying the problem CAUSES & EFFECTS

12 4.1 CAUSE #1

NEGATIVE PORTRAYAL IN THE MEDIA 65.8% of the respondents feel that the negative portrayal stems from the media. Cannabis is represented negatively in movies and television as it is commonly associated with gangsters, drug lords and death.

The negative portrayal from the media comes from the media e.g movies, television and the internet.

Television series like Crimewatch, a local television show, showcases different scenario of crimes that has happened in Singapore. It aims to brings awareness that these crimes have negative effects and shows the consequences of breaking the law.

News outlets such as TODAY and The Straits Times play a part in informing the public about predominantly Singapore news. They have covered

Figure 4A. Old Television. (Puo, 2018.)

the government’s stance against strict intolerance for drugs. The Straits Times has covered news about seizing drugs, thus displaying efforts in battling the drug problem in Singapore.

Figure 4B. Cannabis seized. (Channel News Asia, 2018.)

Figure 4C. Legalising cannabis. (Koh, 2016.)

13 Figure 4D. Billy Caldwell. (Press, 2018.)

EFFECT #1

SOCIAL STIGMA The social stigma of cannabis is caused by the negative portrayal in the Singapore media. The media is pushing for this view on drugs. Social stigma derived from the preconceived notion that all drugs are harmful. People who abuse drugs are seen as a part of delinquent culture (Chok, S).

A case study about medical cannabis was used in the survey held on 7th July. Billy Caldwell is a 12 year-old boy from the United Kingdom(UK) who suffers from intense epilepsy episodes. Due to this special case, Billy is the first person in UK to treated with medical cannabis upon the approval of the government (“Billy Caldwell,�

2018). Billy was 300 days free of seizure after being prescribed with medical cannabis (Revesz, 2017). Hence, showing a vast improvement in his health compared to any other medication. As popular case studies like these are being shared online, a new light is shed on cannabis. It is seen positively in these videos in Western media as opposed to Singaporean media.

14 4.2 CAUSE #2

GOVERNMENT INFLUENCE 28.7% of the 118 respondents believe the negative perception is influenced by the government.

The majority of the respondents feel that the government has shaped their views on drugs.

Government influence is crucially involved in informing the public about drugs. Singapore has always been clear about their zero-tolerance for drugs. The government criminalises drugs in order to adopt a harm prevention method to control drugs (Lye, 2014). Even at a young age, citizens are taught that “Life Does Not Rewind. Say No to Drugs”, which is a government-led campaign. Giving examples of personal experiences from people who have abused drugs prevents citizens from truly being educated about the uses and how it affects them.

80% of the local inmates are drug addicts. As mentioned by Home Affair Minister K. Shanmugam, “For us, the choice is clear. We want a drug-free Singapore, not a drug-tolerant Singapore.” (Cheong, 2016) The government does not see a need to change its harm prevention method on drugs to harm reduction. Moreover, harm reduction methods are commonly practiced by countries who have a higher concern of HIV-induced diseases from drugs through the uses of unsanitary needles. It makes sense that Singapore does not want to adapt to the global trend of legalising cannabis.

The government

implements laws such as the Misuse of Drugs Act where if found guilty consuming, trafficking, importing, possessing, manufacturing and exporting cannabis, the person will be punished for their action (Lam, 2018).

Figure 4E. CND drug free Logo. (CNB, 2006) Figure 4F. Say no to drugs Logo. (Team, 2016)

15 Figure 4G. Changi Women’s Prison. (Law, 2014)

EFFECT #2

LACK OF DISCUSSION The negative perception by the government leads to the lack of discussion on cannabis. People feel that it is a taboo topic to talk about especially considering the legality of cannabis in Singapore. Our conservative country makes it difficult to discuss openly about drugs.

Despite this, 78% of the 118 respondents are from the ages of 17 to 21. This shows youths are more open to the possibilities of medical cannabis. They are more accepting to the fact that cannabis can be a source of medical option.

Youths in Singapore have reported being more liberal on the topic of drugs, more specifically cannabis (Lee, 2015). Youths generally do not think that cannabis should be classified as a Class A drug, which is comparable to drugs like heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine and ecstasy.

This is because it is identified as a psychoactive substance due to THC (Lam, 2018). Some people classify cannabis as “soft” drugs because they think that cannabis is not as addictive as other Class A drugs or that they can stop taking cannabis whenever they want to (Ting, 2017). However, the THC chemical in cannabis has proven to have psychedelic effects and can be addictive when used frequently.

16 4.3 CAUSE #3

ASIAN VALUES & RELIGION Singaporeans is a multi religious and multi-ethnic country. The country boasts about over 6 different religions with Buddhism being the highest percentage at 42.5% followed by Islam at 14.9%, Taoism at 8.5%, Hinduism at 4%, Catholicism at 4.8%, other Christianity at 8.8% and others. However, 14.8% don’t have religion. (Hays, 2013) In January 2014, Yuen-c, Y. reported that a survey was held by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) about social morality. The questions garnered the responses from 4,000 Singapore residents on race, language and religion.

The survey asked participants about sensitive topics such are premarital sex, having a child out of wedlock, homosexual relationships and such. More than half of the participants leaned towards close-minded answers.

Dr Mathew Mathews, the principal investigator

research fellow in IPS, said: “Overall, as you can

see, Singaporeans are fairly conservative in their outlook to such issues.”

Singaporeans also grow up with Asian values in mind. According to a paper by Barr, M. D in 2000, Lee Kuan Yew believed in Confucianism forms of conduct within relationships, personal virtue, obedience to authority, family loyalty, and education. Despite this, Lee Kuan Yew denies ever having speaking of ‘Asian’ values.

Singapore’s values has contributed to the negative perception of cannabis. This has prevented them from seeking objective facts and medical benefits of something that is against the law.

Figure 4H. Religious leaders. (TODAY Online, 2013)

17 EFFECT #3

LIMITATIONS OF MEDICAL SOLUTIONS The negative perception of medical cannabis could ultimately lead to the limitations of it ever becoming a medical solution to someone who really needs it. An example would be a patient named Kelsey Impicciche who suffers from a chronic disease called Trigeminal Neuralgia where she gets horrendous migraines. She has tried every medication available including therapy, treatments, acupuncture, injections and has even gone for surgery 5 times in the span of a few years. She did not realise the medical benefits of cannabis until it was her last choice and decided to document her journey of being prescribed medical cannabis. Eventually, it helped her overcome her pain and she claims is by far the most effective treatment.

Situations like this bring to the light the concern of people who are unaware of the medical solution that is cannabis.

Figure 4I. Exotic rememedies. (Cho, 2017)

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5. current solutions WHAT IS BEING DONE?

20 5.1 CURRENT SOLUTION SYNTHETIC CBD

Singapore has made advancements towards proving cannabis a medication for its citizens. Yew Wen Shan is an enzymologist from National University of Singapore is looking to develop synthetic CBD for prescription medicine. He says in an interview with CNBC: “There is a global market for cannabinoid-derived therapeutics. Use of the plant in raw form isn’t actually sustainable, so through this research program, sustainable production of cannabinoidderived therapeutics can be achieved” (Chandran, 2018).

This opens up more opportunity for cannabis to be considered as a medical option in Singapore.

Professor Yew is being funded by the National Research Foundation and experiment with its properties without incorporating any THC in it (Lee, 2018). If proven successful, it could mean the next step towards dispelling the stigma of cannabis..

Figure 5A. NORML website. (NORML, 2013)

Figure 5B. Professor Yew. (Lee, 2018)

5.2 CURRENT SOLUTION NORML.ORG

NORML is a website about cannabis. It’s mission is to legalise the use of cannabis by responsible adults. This is to ensure people can consume high quality cannabis safely NORML holds conferences for debates and discussion, therefore providing a platform for people to speak. They also have a call to action page where they encourage people to pledge for them. What is also helpful is they have an extensive library of medical research papers for people to read up about the latest news about cannabis.

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5.3 CURRENT SOLUTION STONER CLEAN-UP INITIATIVE

The stoner clean-up initiative was started by a Reddit user in July 2018. The post was title “Cleaned up the smoke spot #StonerCleanUpInitiative.� (SEO, 2018) This became a movement for people to battle the stigma surrounding people who smoke cannabis. The stigma is that cannabis smokers are lazy, unproductive and unhelpful. It has proven effective because within 24 hours, the post had received 22,000 upvotes and an estimated amount of 80 to 500,000 people had viewed it. This sparked the trend of picking up their litter and posting it on social media using the same hashtag.

The community saw this as a good way of combating the perception in a positive and harmless way. In turn, this gives back to the community by helping to clean the environment around them. However, due to the lack of structure, the campaign was not as moving as it could have been. There was also no boundaries surrounding it which makes it less niche. Some people were just cleaning their coffee tables and others were cleaning up the beach. Therefore, despite its success, it could have been executed better.

Figure 5C. Stoner clean-up initiative logo (n.a, 2018)

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Figure 5D. Photo (Dragon, 2018)

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6. design solutions A SINGAPOREAN SOLUTION

24 6.1 DESIGN SOLUTION GREEN SLATE

The proposed design solution is a movement called Green Slate. It is targeted towards 25 - 40 years old Singaporean adult who take charge of their own health. The green is from the colour of cannabis and slate is derived from the phrase ‘a clean slate’. This movement extends to a website and an Instagram page. The objective of the movement is to clear the misconception of medical cannabis and dispel the stigma surrounding it. Green Slate, as a brand, values integrity, reliability, community and open-mindness. They are informative and sincere when sharing information and courageous in tackling the topic, cannabis, despite such actions are not condoned in Singapore.

The website contains a page dedicated to cannabis in a Singaporean context, problems faced and a research library with books, magazine, newspaper, videos, websites and infographics pertaining to medical cannabis.

6.2 PROS Green Slate is specially targeted towards Singaporeans which is a more conservative audience. This is from an unbiased point of view which is intended to educate people. People will be able to view both the positive and negative views concerning cannabis. The information on the website would be easy to navigate through.

The information and design of the site is inclusive, and albeit towards Singaporeans, is also for any conservative community looking to further educate themselves about cannabis.

6.3 CONS The movement might not reach a lot of people.

The website could also be threaten to be taken down by the government.

Figure 6A. Green slate logo (writers, 2018)

25 G R E E N

HOME

S L A T E

ABOUT CANNABIS PERCEPTION LIBRARY ABOUT US CONTACT US

WELCOME TO GREEN SLATE Singapore’s one-stop hub for medical cannabis education.

Cannabis is a taboo subject that is not taken lightly in Singapore and is known for its strict laws against the matter. It has garnered a negative perception aspect due to its infamous mind-altering effects and influence. Especially in Singapore, the conservative society and negative portrayal contribute to this negative perception. However, people are unaware of the medical benefits it provides and the number of real-life cases out there that prove these advantages are real. This will beg the question - why is there a negative perception of cannabis in Singapore?

HOME

ABOUT CANNABIS PERCEPTION LIBRARY ABOUT US CONTACT US

© GREEN SLATE SG 2018. All Rights Reserved.

Figure 6B. Green slate landing page (writers, 2018)

Figure 6C. Green slate instagram page (writers, 2018)

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27

7. conclusion THE START OF PROGRESS

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Ultimately, Singapore has a long way to go before legalising cannabis. It is possibly one of the next few steps towards a revolutionary future. Despite the strict laws, the country is taking a great leap towards an alternative medical solution.

However, the perception surrounding it still exists. Without dispelling the stigma against cannabis, Singapore can never truly advance towards becoming a progressive nation. Green Slate provides the platform for cannabis to be looked at from an objective and medical point of view. With this, Green Slate hopes to educate Singaporeans on the health benefits they can gain from cannabis.

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8. references BECAUSE WHAT IS A GOOD REPORT WITHOUT REFERENING SOME REALLY SMART PEOPLE

30 Writers, Temasek Polytechnic (2018) Perception of use of substances. [Survey] Retrieved from https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/ d/1wwhLycbHOY0wl_ksWLhGJB_CQqqg38LwOFGF_8wY1Ws/edit?usp=sharing Central Narcotics Bureau, CNB (2017) Drug and inhalants. Retrieved from https://www.cnb.gov.sg/drug-information/drugs-and-inhalants Leaf Science (2017, November 22) THC versus CBD: what’s the difference? https://www.leafscience.com/2017/11/22/thc-cbd-difference/ Blaszczak-Boxe, A. (2014, October 17) Marijuana’s history: how one plant spread through the world. Retrieved from https://www. livescience.com/48337-marijuana-history-how-cannabis-travelled-world.html Gettman, J. (2015, September 10). Marijuana versus cannabis: pot-related terms to use and words we should lose. Retrieved from https://hightimes.com/culture/marijuana-vs-cannabis-pot-related-terms-to-use-and-words-we-should-lose/ Kubala J. (2018, February 26) Seven benefits and uses of cannabidiol oil: plus side effects. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/ nutrition/cbd-oil-benefits Railton, D. (2018, February 21). Marijuana: good or bad? Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320984.php Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine (2014). Marijuana and lung diseases. 20(2), 173-179. Retrieved from http://www.doi.org/10.1097/ MCP.0000000000000026 Health Sciences Authority. (2017) Drug abuse testing. Retrieved from http://www.hsa.gov.sg/content/hsa/en/Applied_Sciences/Toxicology/ Overview/Drug_Abuse_Testing.html Saunders, D. (n.d.) The role of paracetamol in curing headaches. Retrieved from http://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/109863/ headaches/the_role_of_paracetamol_in_curing_headaches.html Chandran, N. (2018, April 30) Singapore, home to strict drug laws, looks to develop synthetic marijuana compounds. Retrieved from https://www.cnbc.com/2018/04/30/singapore-funds-research-on-synthetic-cannabinoids.html Billy Caldwell ‘may be allowed to take medicinal cannabis at home’ (2018, July 6). BBC News. Retrieved from http://www.bbc.com Revesz, R. (2017, September 6). Boy who suffered up to 100 seizures a day has none in 300 days after being prescribed cannabis oil.

Independent [United Kingdom]. Retrieved from https://www.independent.co.uk Lam, L. (2018, May 1). 25 new psychoactive substances listed as Class A controlled drugs. The Straits Times [Singapore]. Retrieved from http://www.straitstimes.com Cheong, D. (2016, May 1).’Drug situation is under control. Why should we legalise drugs?’: K. Shanmugam. The Straits Times [Singapore].

Retrieved http://www.straitstimes.com Lye, V. (2014, July 16). Singapore must resist pro-drug lobby. The Straits Times [Singapore]. Retrieved from http://www.lexisnexis.com Lee, A. (2015, June 24). S’pore youth have relaxed attitude towards drug abuse, survey shows. TODAY [Singapore]. Retrieved from http:// www.lexisnexis.com Ting, W. (2017, May 12). The Big Read: Softer attitudes towards drugs a headache for authorities. TODAY [Singapore]. Retrieved from http://www.todayonline.com Yuen-c, Y. (2014, January 28) Singaporeans still conservative, IPS survey finds. Retrieved from https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/ singaporeans-still-largely-conservative-ips-survey-finds Hays, J. (2013) Religion in singapore. Retrieved from http://factsanddetails.com/southeast-asia/Singapore/sub5_7a/entry-3719.html Barr, M. D. (2000, September). Marijuana and lung diseases. 24(3), 309-334. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1080/10357820008713278 Buzzfeed. (2017, June 1). Kelsey Impicciche: I tried medical marijuana for my chronic pain. [Video file] Retrieved from https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=05jEknLDEoI&t=1s

31 SEO, T. (2018, July 17). #StonerCleanUpInitiative: What is it and Why does it Matter? [Blog Post]. Retrieved from https:// trailblazerseo.com/stoner-cleanup-initiative/ National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana laws (2013, June 29). NORML; working to reform marijuana laws. Retrieved from http://norml.org/ Cheok, S (n.d). Singapore’s War of Drugs: A Historical Overview. Singapore’s contemporary drug problem: Race, class, age, and the rise of online threats. Retrieved from https://lkyspp.nus.edu.sg/docs/default-source/case-studies/20180223_singapores_war_on_drugs_ final.pdf?sfvrsn=5ec9c0b_2 Lee, M (2018, March 24). Plant Pharma. The Business Times [Singapore]. Retrieved from https://www.businesstimes.com.sg Figure 1A (2018). Writer’s portrait Figure 1B (2018). Writer’s portrait (n.a) (2016). Migration: Now and Then. Retrieved from http://musselmanlibrary.org/classes/fys111-fall2016/maps/murpet01/ Figure 2A. (n.a) (2016, March 23). Simple Map of Asia. Retrieved from http://pikku.co/simple-map-of-asia.html Figure 2B. (n.a) (2016). Migration: Now and Then. Retrieved from http://musselmanlibrary.org/classes/fys111-fall2016/maps/murpet01/ Figure 2C. Kubala, J. (2018, February 26). 7 Benefits and Uses of CBD Oil (Plus Side Effects). Retrieved from https://www.healthline. com/nutrition/cbd-oil-benefits Figure 3. Writers. (2018) Class Photo.

Figure 4A. Puo, L (2018, May 17) Old Television. Retrieved from https://purepng.com/photo/10604/objects-old-television Figure 4B. 6 youths arrested, nearly 3kg of cannabis seized in CNB raid. (2018, July 12). Channel NewsAsia. Retrieved from https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/6-youths-arrested-nearly-3kg-of-cannabis-seized-in-cnb-raid-10523492 Figure 4C. Koh, V. (2016, March 15). S’pore will not legalise cannabis, other drugs, says Desmond Lee. TODAY online [Singapore].

Retrieved from https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/singapore-will-not-decriminalise-cannabis Figure 4D. Press (2018, June 17). Billy Caldwell: Mum of severely epileptic boy says ‘let me deal with son at residence’ as she requires medical hashish reform (News). PressCute. Retrieved from https://www.presscute.com/billy-caldwell-mum-of-severelyepileptic-boy-says-let-me-treat-son-at-home-as-she-calls-for-medical-cannabis-reform-news/ Figure 4E. CNB (2006) CNB Drug Free SG logo. Retrieved from https://www.facebook.com/CNB.DrugFreeSG/photos/a.428863975597.230099.98511430597/10153772803290598/?type=1&theater Figure 4F. Team, S (2016) Observing The International Day Against Drug-Abuse & Illicit Trafficking! Style Whack Retrieved from https://stylewhack.com/drug-abuse-illicit-trafficking/ Figure 4G. Law, E. (2014, December 10). Changi Women’s Prison: Not a place you want to return to: Page 2 of 2. AsiaOne [Singapore] Retrieved from http://www.asiaone.com/changi-womens-prison-not-place-you-want-return?page=0%2C1 Figure 4H. Singapore track blessed ahead of annual F1 night race. (2013, September 12). TODAYonline. Retrieved from https://www. todayonline.com/sports/singapore-track-blessed-ahead-annual-f1-night-race Figure 4I. Cho, A. (2017, April 20). Exotic remedies: 7 medicines you won’t find outside the former Soviet Union. Russia Beyond.

Retrieved from https://www.rbth.com/science_and_tech/2017/04/20/exotic-remedies-7-medicines-you-wont-find-outside-the-formersoviet-union_747078 Figure 5A. National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana laws (2013, June 29). NORML; working to reform marijuana laws.

Retrieved from http://norml.org/ Figure 5B. Lee, M (2018, March 24). Plant Pharma. The Business Times [Singapore]. Retrieved from https://www.businesstimes.com.sg

32 Figure 5C. The Stoner Cleanup Initiative. (2018. August 14) @stoner_cleanup: Thanks! Any chance you could add our badge to your site to show your support? It would mean a lot to us! [Tweet] Retrieved from https://twitter.com/stoner_cleanup/ status/1029457018719891456 Figure 5D. Dragon, J. (2018, July 20). Redditors over on r/trees are doing #stonercleanupinitiative where they clean up their favourite smoke spots. Retrieved from https://i.redd.it/16l71lm7nua11.jpg Figure 6A. Writers. (2018) Green slate logo.

Figure 6B. Writers. (2018) Landing page.

Figure 6C. Writers. (2018) Instagram page.

TEMASEK POLYTECHNIC

PREPARED BY:

COMMUNICATING DESIGN ARGUMENTS

SABRINA NOOR SHAFIQAH SAMAD