Both new and repeat users continue to contribute to overall figures, although new users now make up the larger portion.
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s drug problem remains persistently high, with new users now forming the majority of cases detected, according to the National Anti-Drugs Agency (Nada).
Its director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh said total cases rose from 145,526 in 2023 to 192,857 in 2024, before decreasing slightly to 191,832 in 2025. The rate per 100,000 population also increased from 436 to 566, before easing to 560.
“Most cases detected in 2025 involved new users, with 119,569 new cases compared with 72,263 repeat cases,” he told theSun.
Nada data also shows a significant proportion of those identified were first-time users or users of new substances.
Ruslin said both new and repeat users continue to contribute to overall figures, although new users now make up the larger portion.
On recovery, he said 81% of those assessed in 2025 achieved sustained recovery under the Cure and Care Recovery Index.
A total of 21,794 out of 26,852 evaluated were recorded as having reached stable recovery status after undergoing treatment and rehabilitation programmes, either in centres or within the community.
“The results indicate that Nada’s treatment and rehabilitation modules are effective and on the right track,” he said.
On April 6, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said 13,655 drug users were detected in the state, with 95.2% being men.
Amphetamine-type stimulants, including methamphetamine, accounted for 59.1% of cases, while youths aged between 15 and 39 comprised 76.4% of users.
The figures highlight the dominance of synthetic drugs and the concentration of usage among young age groups.
