The growing trend of drug abuse, particularly methamphetamine, among commercial vehicle drivers has become a serious concern, with many resorting to the illicit substance in an attempt to remain alert and work longer hours. The practice has raised fresh concerns over road safety as it significantly increases the risk of fatal crashes involving heavy vehicles.
National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) Director-General Datuk Ruslin Jusoh said many drivers detained during enforcement operations admitted they consumed methamphetamine to keep themselves energised throughout long journeys. He explained that the stimulant enables users to stay awake and continue working for extended periods, but once its effects begin to wear off, drivers may lose control, become disorientated or even fall unconscious, creating a dangerous situation on the road.
He said this during a press conference following the Integrated Drug Operation conducted by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and AADK at the Seremban Southbound Rest and Service Area (R&R) on Wednesday night. Also present was JPJ Director-General Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli.
Ruslin said intelligence gathered by the agency showed methamphetamine remains the drug of choice among commercial vehicle drivers, while ketum is also commonly misused for similar purposes. During the nationwide operation conducted between 8am and 6pm, a total of 224 drivers were instructed to undergo urine screening, with 22 testing positive for prohibited substances.
Of those who tested positive, 14 were found to have used methamphetamine, six tested positive for ketum and two for cannabis. Negeri Sembilan recorded the highest number of detections, with nine drivers aged between 26 and 61 testing positive, including a tour bus driver who was found to have consumed ketum.
Ruslin also revealed that amendments to the Drug Dependants (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act 1983, which came into force this year, have empowered AADK to take enforcement action against individuals who abuse ketum. Under the revised law, offenders can now be detained and required to undergo treatment and rehabilitation at AADK rehabilitation centres as part of efforts to strengthen measures against substance abuse.
Meanwhile, Aedy Fadly stressed that JPJ would take firm action against commercial vehicle drivers who test positive for drugs, including suspending their vocational licences and driving licences. He said the department would not compromise with drivers who rely on drugs simply to complete more trips or extend their working hours.
He added that transport companies must also be held accountable for ensuring the drivers they employ are free from drug abuse. Operators that fail to comply with licensing requirements or continue employing drivers involved in substance abuse could face enforcement action, including the suspension of their operating licences.
According to Aedy Fadly, the large-scale integrated operation began nationwide on Wednesday with the participation of several enforcement agencies, including the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), the Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT), Puspakom, highway concessionaires and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture. The joint operation reflects the authorities’ commitment to strengthening enforcement efforts and improving road safety by tackling drug abuse among commercial vehicle drivers.
