Malaysia’s growing number of drug addicts and substance abusers has reached an alarming level, prompting renewed calls for a nationwide effort to tackle what has been described as a serious threat to public safety and national security.
Safe Community Alliance chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye warned that drug abuse is no longer just a social problem but a major national concern that could have far-reaching consequences if left unchecked.
He said that despite various initiatives introduced by the government and enforcement agencies, the number of people abusing drugs has continued to rise. The worsening trend has highlighted the need for more effective and comprehensive strategies involving every sector of society.
According to Lee, drug abuse is driven by a combination of factors, including individual attitudes, peer pressure, family problems and a lack of awareness about the dangers of drugs.
Among young people, he said curiosity, inadequate parental supervision, unhealthy social environments, easy access to drugs and financial pressures are among the main reasons many become involved in substance abuse.
Lee also warned that drug addiction contributes to a rise in crimes such as robbery, snatch theft, burglary, intimidation and violence, as addicts often resort to criminal activities to finance their drug habits.
He added that addiction also places tremendous strain on families, with many addicts neglecting their responsibilities towards their spouses and children, while some become aggressive and create conflict within the household.
Beyond individual families, Lee said drug abuse disrupts public safety and social harmony, while the country suffers significant economic losses through reduced productivity, higher enforcement costs, rehabilitation expenses and losses linked to drug-related crime.
Referring to the latest figures released by the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK), Lee noted that 100,882 drug addicts and substance abusers had been recorded nationwide as of March this year, equivalent to 295 individuals for every 100,000 people.
He described the figures as deeply worrying, particularly as 73 per cent of cases involved synthetic Amphetamine-Type Stimulants (ATS), including methamphetamine (syabu) and yaba pills.
Lee urged the government to review the effectiveness of current anti-drug policies and introduce more structured, innovative and impactful measures to curb the growing problem.
He stressed that addressing drug abuse should not be left solely to the AADK or the government, but instead requires a “whole-of-nation approach” involving parents, schools, non-governmental organisations, local communities and the wider public.
Lee also called for stronger political commitment to ensure drug abuse is treated as a national priority before the situation deteriorates further.
“If we fail to act now, the drug menace will not only threaten national security but could also destroy the future of our younger generation,” he warned.
