Kuala lumpur: The National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) is strengthening its anti-drug volunteer group, SKUAD Anti-dadah, by introducing SKUAD Junior to schools nationwide. This initiative aims to cultivate a drug-aware generation from a young age.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, AADK deputy director-general (Operations) Zainudin Abdullah explained that SKUAD Junior is designed for students aged 10 to 17. The program trains them to become anti-drug advocates, thereby helping in early prevention efforts within their school communities. “Through this effort, we hope they will become future members of the anti-drug squad once they reach the age of 18,” Zainudin stated at an appreciation ceremony for the 2025 national-level Anti-Drug Squad Gathering.

The event also saw the presence of National Anti-Drug Squad president Maj. (Rtd.) Mohamad Shukri Che Wang. Zainudin highlighted that 32 schools have already established SKUAD Junior. Additionally, AADK plans to expand SKUAD Antidadah membership to higher learning institutions, including public and private colleges, with support from the Ministry of Education (MOE).

Zainudin emphasized the importance of youth involvement in anti-drug initiatives, noting that over 70% of drug abuse cases involve individuals aged 18 to 45. As of June, there were 134,916 recorded cases of drug addiction and substance abuse nationwide, marking an 8.8% decrease from the same period last year.

Kelantan reported the highest rate of drug abuse per 100,000 population, with 758 individuals, followed by Terengganu and Perlis, with rates of 754 and 731, respectively.