KELANTAN has the highest rate of drug abuse in Malaysia, with 1,130 cases per 100,000 residents, according to the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK).
Other states with high rates include Terengganu (974 cases), Perlis (965), Kedah (898), and Penang (803).
Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail shared these figures in response to Mohamad Shafizan Haji Kepli (Batang Lupar), who asked for details on drug abuse statistics by state and the government's plans to improve AADK’s monitoring and prevention efforts.
Saifuddin reported that the total number of drug users and addicts in Malaysia in 2024 reached 192,857, based on data from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), AADK, the Ministry of Health (KKM), and private rehabilitation centers.
Among ethnic groups, Malays have the highest number of drug users at 145,877, followed by Indians (14,935), Chinese (14,861), indigenous people of Sabah (9,322), indigenous people of Sarawak (5,530), and others (2,332).
Malaysia's national drug abuse rate is 566 cases per 100,000 residents, with some states showing much higher rates.
Saifuddin stated that the government is committed to addressing drug-related issues through better enforcement and rehabilitation programs.
“AADK plans to expand its workforce to adapt to changing drug trends and updates to the Drug Addicts (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act 1983,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of involving the community in addressing drug abuse, especially in rural areas. – February 27, 2025
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