Home Minister Shares Worrying Trend In 4 States With Highest Number Of Drug Addicts
Langkawi has the highest rate of drug users among all districts.
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Malaysia recorded 130,307 drug addicts as of June, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail
According to Bernama, Saifuddin said Terengganu, Kelantan, Kedah, and Perlis recorded worrying trends in drug use and abuse, with rates exceeding the national ratio of 381 cases per 100,000 population.
Here is the breakdown:
- Terengganu: 735 per 100,000 population
- Kelantan: 694 per 100,000 population
- Kedah: 669 per 100,000 population
- Perlis: 646 per 100,000 population
China Press reported that Langkawi in Kedah had the highest rate, with 1,570 drug users per 100,000 people, followed by Pendang, also in Kedah, with 1,278.
He said the 15-to-39 age group constituted the largest segment involved, with a majority of them holding an education level of the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) qualification or lower.
The highest number of drug addicts are unemployed, followed by the self-employed, and those working in the private sector
Saifuddin said amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) or synthetic drugs are the most widely used substances among addicts, accounting for 84% of drug use.
"These figures are not merely data; they send a distinct signal. That is why I have urged the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) to ensure that planned programmes are data-driven and that policies are formulated based on data," he said.
He added that the Home Ministry (KDN) is prepared to step up campaigns and work with state governments and other parties to tackle the issue.
He stressed that addressing the drug problem requires strong political will and collective effort, as it has evolved from an individual concern into a national issue.
