“The increasing prevalence of synthetic drugs, which are often cheaper, more potent and easier to produce than traditional drugs, has changed the landscape of drug abuse,” he said in a statement today.
KUALA LUMPUR: Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye has called for the fight against synthetic drug abuse to be declared a national priority, warning that Malaysia risks losing another generation if stronger action is not taken.
“The increasing prevalence of synthetic drugs, which are often cheaper, more potent and easier to produce than traditional drugs, has changed the landscape of drug abuse,” he said in a statement today.
Lee said the substances could cause severe psychological disturbances, violent behaviour, hallucinations and permanent brain damage, while their chemical composition could also be altered to evade existing laws, making them more difficult for authorities to detect and regulate.
Lee stressed that drug abuse was no longer merely a law enforcement issue but a national public health, social, educational and security challenge requiring a comprehensive whole-of-government and whole-of-society response.
He called for stronger coordination among the relevant ministries and agencies and intensification of intelligence-led enforcement against drug trafficking syndicates.
He also proposed strengthening prevention programmes in schools, colleges and universities through continuous education, and expanding mental health services for young people.
Lee said drug abuse was not only destroying lives but also weakening families, undermining communities and threatening the nation’s future workforce and productivity.
“The fight against drugs cannot be left solely to the National Anti-Drugs Agency and the Royal Malaysia Police. It requires the active participation of every stakeholder, including government agencies, schools, employers, religious organisations, community leaders, civil society organisations, parents and young people themselves,” he said.
