Drug abuse among Malaysian under-15s a growing concern, says Saifuddin Nasution

Machang, Oct 17 — The issue of drug abuse among children under 15 is growing, prompting Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail to call for more comprehensive preventative measures. According to the profiles of those involved in drug abuse, the age group most frequently affected lies between 15 and 39. Saifuddin emphasised the importance of preventive education and parental involvement in curbing youth involvement in drug abuse.

The National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) is tasked with three key functions: education and prevention, enforcement, and rehabilitation, to tackle the drug abuse problem. Strengthening public education efforts to raise awareness and encourage preventive action within families is a priority, Saifuddin told a media conference after the Home Ministry's Madani Adopted Village and School 2026 launch ceremony.

Recently, 521 kilograms of methamphetamine were seized from a private jet in Laos, after it departed from Subang Airport for Manila. The aircraft had previously landed in Laos without drugs, but upon its return to Manila, the drugs were loaded onto the plane. Lao authorities detected the contraband when the aircraft was en route to Manila.

Police have identified the owner, pilot, and co-pilot of the aircraft to aid in the ongoing investigation, while the charter party and intended destination are being probed. The identity of the aircraft owner has been established, though additional details of the investigation remain confidential. A few months prior, Lao police intercepted 521 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine aboard a Learjet that had arrived from Malaysia at Luang Prabang International Airport.

Thirteen individuals were arrested in connection with the case, following a security operation conducted on October 1. The operation was triggered by information received by provincial police on September 21, concerning a drug trafficking syndicate allegedly planning to smuggle narcotics across the border via air using a private aircraft.