Kuala lumpur: Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye has called for the fight against synthetic drug abuse to be declared a national priority, warning that Malaysia risks losing another generation if stronger action is not taken.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lee highlighted that the increasing prevalence of synthetic drugs, which are often cheaper, more potent, and easier to produce than traditional drugs, has significantly altered the landscape of drug abuse. He emphasized that these substances could lead to severe psychological disturbances, violent behavior, hallucinations, and permanent brain damage. Moreover, the chemical composition of synthetic drugs can be modified to evade existing laws, complicating efforts by authorities to detect and regulate them.

Lee stressed that drug abuse should be perceived not merely as a law enforcement issue but as a national public health, social, educational, and security challenge that necessitates a comprehensive whole-of-government and whole-of-society response. He urged for stronger coordination among relevant ministries and agencies and called for an intensification of intelligence-led enforcement against drug trafficking syndicates.