Kuala lumpur: The rate of synthetic drug addiction in Malaysia has reached an alarming level, accounting for 70 percent of the total number of drug addicts nationwide, according to National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) Director-General, Datuk Ruslin Jusoh.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, this development aligns with the latest trend of syndicates mixing illicit substances, including fentanyl, into electronic cigarette or vape liquids. Arrests and seizures by police indicate the presence of these substances in the country. However, AADK has not recorded any cases of fentanyl addiction at its rehabilitation centers. Ruslin mentioned that fentanyl addicts might still be at large.
Despite the absence of recorded fentanyl cases, AADK is prepared and capable of handling synthetic drug addiction, including fentanyl, which is 50 percent more harmful than morphine. The agency has also tailored its treatment and rehabilitation processes to remain effective, classifying different approaches based on the type of drug consumed.
A specific approach has been devised for traditional drug addicts using heroin and cannabis, while a different method is employed for stimulant-type drug addicts, such as those using methamphetamine and amphetamine pills, known by the street name pil kuda. Although the basic module remains consistent, the implementation is adapted to meet the needs of those in rehabilitation.
Last Tuesday, Bukit Aman Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department Director Datuk Hussein Omar Khan reported the detection of a drug trafficking syndicate introducing vape products containing furanyl fentanyl into the local market, following a nationwide Op Vape 1.0 operation.
Ruslin also highlighted that the drug abuse rate in states bordering neighboring countries remains concerning, despite a slight decline in overall addict statistics last year. Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, and Perlis are identified as high-risk areas due to their proximity to border entry points. The recorded number of drug addicts last year declined by 0.5 percent to 191,000 compared to 192,000 individuals in 2024, but border states continue to record high rates, necessitating continuous and aggressive action.
The addiction rate is measured per 100,000 population, with current findings showing that the border states surpass other states. Although strict controls are enforced by law enforcement agencies, drug trafficking syndicates continue seeking alternative routes for smuggling drugs.
AADK's primary focus this year is to reduce demand for illicit substances through a community-based approach, early education, and comprehensive rehabilitation. The agency plans to begin recording addiction data by district for more precise and targeted action. Additionally, AADK is reviewing a new National Drug Policy for the next five years, in line with the 20 percent increase in global addiction trends reported by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.