A 22-year-old man in Penang shocked neighbours after collecting his urine in drink bottles until his entire room was filled, reportedly due to a kratom addiction he has struggled with for nearly a year.
Despite having a nearby bathroom, the man allegedly continued to urinate into bottles and store them in his room, creating unhygienic and uncomfortable conditions at his residence.
Initially experimenting with kratom leaf drinks, he reportedly became increasingly dependent, with the addiction affecting his daily life. According to the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) Penang, his dependence led to unemployment, neglected daily routines, and aggressive behaviour when he could not obtain money to purchase kratom.
“The situation became alarming as he displayed significant behavioural changes that were difficult to control,” AADK Penang said in a Facebook post on Wednesday.
The agency warned that such cases illustrate the serious consequences of kratom abuse, which can harm both mental and physical health and strain family relationships.
“Many people underestimate kratom because it is just a brewed leaf drink. In reality, excessive or improper use can lead to addiction and behavioural changes,” the statement added.
AADK Penang urged the public not to take kratom misuse lightly and to seek help immediately if family members or friends show signs of addiction. “Supportive guidance is crucial to help individuals return to the right path, rather than approaching the issue with condemnation,” the agency advised.
