JENGKA: The drug abuse problem in Pahang is at a worrying level, with 12,745 users and addicts recorded as of June this year.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said this figure translates to a rate of 765 addicts for every 100,000 people in the state.
"This clearly shows that drug abuse is not a minor issue, but a serious threat that challenges the country’s social stability and economic growth,” he said.
He was speaking at the closing ceremony of the ‘Pahang Teguh Dadah Terkawal’ (PTDT) tour held in conjunction with the state-level Anti-Drugs Day commemoration, which was graced and officiated by the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, at Dewan Balora Mastika here on Saturday (Sept 20).
Also present was Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail.
Saifuddin said 1,917 clients are also undergoing treatment and rehabilitation at 47 private rehabilitation centres nationwide.
He added that the most affected group is those aged between 15 and 35, particularly individuals working in the unskilled sector.
"This situation not only undermines their economic potential but also affects national productivity.
"What’s more worrying is that synthetic drugs such as methamphetamine and ketamine remain the main choice among addicts, with their spread becoming increasingly widespread,” he said. - Bernama
