Four states exceed national drug involvement threshold

Four Malaysian states — Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu — have drug involvement rates surpassing the national average, according to Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. The districts of Pendang in Kedah and Kuala Krai in Kelantan rank highest, with Tumpat, Tanah Merah, Bachok in Kelantan, Besut in Terengganu also highlighted as critical areas. These concerns are not confined to a single state; other states are exhibiting escalating drug involvement rates, Saifuddin stated at a press conference.

The Home Ministry's Kampung Angkat Madani and Sekolah Angkat Madani programs underscored the urgency for comprehensive countermeasures. Child drug abuse cases below 15 years old are a growing worry, while those aged 15 to 39 constitute the majority of drug abusers. Saifuddin emphasized the need for preventive measures, such as early education and enhanced parental involvement, to deter young people from engaging in drug abuse.

The National Anti-Drug Agency (Nada) shoulders three core responsibilities: education and prevention, enforcement, and rehabilitation. Strengthening public education to raise awareness and encourage families to take preventive action is crucial, Saifuddin stressed. To curb drug-related activities along the Kelantan-Thailand border, he directed the Kelantan police chief to ensure constant surveillance across all border sections.

This involves maintaining a visible police presence, demolishing illegal jetties, and enforcing the Immigration Act against undocumented cross-border movements. However, Saifuddin acknowledged that these efforts may not fully eradicate the issue, as drug-related crime is tied to long-standing organized criminal networks. He stressed that while actions can mitigate the problem, it cannot be completely eliminated. The responsibility lies with the Home Ministry and police, but it should be a collective effort.