National Anti-Drugs Agency reports 7.9% decrease in drug cases, with synthetic drugs like syabu dominating 83.2% of all recorded cases.
PUTRAJAYA: Nationwide drug addiction and abuse cases fell by 7.9% from January to September this year compared to the same period last year.
National Anti-Drugs Agency director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh said 156,316 cases were recorded as of September this year versus 169,691 cases in 2024.
He revealed that 83.2% or 76,467 individuals were involved with synthetic drugs, specifically syabu.
The majority of those involved were aged between 15 and 39.
Addiction to synthetic drugs also includes magic mushrooms, synthetic cannabis, yaba pills, ecstasy and ketamine.
“These drugs are easier to obtain and produce faster effects compared to traditional drugs like heroin and cannabis,” he told reporters after a meet-and-greet session with the media.
Ruslin said the agency’s focus this year is implementing amendments to the Drug Dependants (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act 1983.
The amendments aim to differentiate the definitions of a drug dependant and a drug abuser.
They also broaden the scope of treatment and rehabilitation for dependants.
Rehabilitation Officers are now granted authority to issue certificates for voluntary drug treatment at AADK facilities.
“We want the public to know that those who are involved can come forward voluntarily to receive treatment,” he said.
Ruslin noted that voluntary attendance remains low compared to those who attend through court orders. – Bernama
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