KAJANG: The Home Ministry is studying the need to amend existing laws or introduce new legislation to address the growing issue of drug sales via online platforms.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the matter has been discussed at the Cabinet Committee on Addressing Drug Issues, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
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"We see the need to review legal and regulatory aspects to improve enforcement capabilities," he told reporters after officiating the closing ceremony of the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) i-Deen programme on Tuesday (Aug 5).
"This matter involves multiple agencies with different jurisdictions.
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"For example, drug issues fall under the Home Ministry's purview, but if the sale occurs via online platforms, that falls under the jurisdiction of the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry.”
Saifuddin said one of the main challenges in tackling online drug sales is the use of various platforms that are difficult to monitor, especially when transactions occur outside official channels.
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He described the trend as a growing threat, warning that easy access to drugs and discreet transactions make enforcement efforts more complicated.
"If the transactions happen on official e-commerce platforms, they are easier to detect.
"But if social media platforms are used, it becomes more challenging.
"This includes cases where delivery services like courier companies are used for small-scale drug distribution,” he added.
