Perak: Ten Drug-Free Aspiration Villages (KABD) have been established in Perak to empower local communities in the fight against drug abuse at the grassroots level. Perak State National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) director Mohamad Nor Musa announced the initiative, which was approved in November 2025 through the District Drug Combating Action Council. The program aims to encourage communities to motivate those involved in drug abuse to voluntarily seek treatment.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad Nor emphasized the importance of community mobilization in addressing drug issues, highlighting that these problems often originate within families or communities. The goal is to add ten more villages to the KABD initiative annually until 2030, fostering community-led programs to enhance public awareness and eradication efforts.
Speaking at a press conference during the Perak State AADK Night with the Media 2026, Mohamad Nor explained that the villages were selected based on local leaders' commitment and the presence of at-risk groups. The KABD approach focuses on treating drug addicts with compassion, challenging the traditional stigmatization that often leads to further isolation.
Mohamad Nor revealed that 191,832 individuals were involved in drug abuse in Malaysia as of 2025, with 14,915 cases recorded in Perak. Despite a 6.79 percent decrease from 2024, these figures remain concerning. The use of synthetic drugs, particularly amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS), has increased among individuals aged 15 to 39 years, with 5,561 cases reported in Perak and a 39.9 percent rise in various synthetic drug use compared to 2023.
He stressed that addressing drug abuse requires more than prevention; it necessitates a comprehensive approach involving treatment, recovery, early intervention, psychosocial support, and employment opportunities. The challenge of re-addiction persists, influenced by environmental factors, stress, lack of family support, societal stigma, and difficulties in community reintegration.
Mohamad Nor also voiced concern over the rising trend of students using vapes mixed with illicit substances, synthetic liquids, and hallucinogens like "magic mushrooms," starting as young as 11 years old. This trend, driven by peer pressure and social media, poses risks to students' academic performance, discipline, mental health, and future prospects if not addressed promptly.