BENTONG: A total of 130,307 drug addicts and abusers have been recorded nationwide as of June, with Terengganu, Kelantan, Kedah and Perlis registering worrying rates above the national ratio.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the national ratio currently stood at 381 cases for every 100,000 people, while the four states recorded significantly higher rates.
“Among 100,000 people, Terengganu recorded 735 cases, Kelantan (694), Kedah (669) and Perlis (646), all of which are above the national ratio,” he told reporters after the handover ceremony for the completed construction, demolition and upgrading project of the Karak National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) Cure and Rehabilitation Centre (Puspen) here on Monday (Oct 5).
Saifuddin Nasution said the majority of those involved were aged between 15 and 39, while most had an education level of Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) or below.
“Based on occupation, the highest number are those who are unemployed, followed by the self-employed and those working in the private sector,” he said.
Saifuddin Nasution said amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS), or synthetic drugs, were the most widely used substances, accounting for 84% of cases.
“These figures are not merely numbers; they send a clear signal. That is why I have urged the AADK to ensure that its programmes and policies are data-driven,” he said.
He said the Home Ministry was open to intensifying campaigns, cooperation and collaboration, including with state governments, to tackle drug abuse.
Of the 130,307 drug addicts and abusers recorded, 57.9%, or 75,501 individuals, had received treatment and rehabilitation through institutional and community-based programmes, Health Ministry facilities and private rehabilitation centres.
“Addressing the drug problem requires strong political will and cooperation from all parties because this is not merely an individual problem, but has become a national issue,” he said.
