Kota Bharu: The Kelantan government has proposed that the Home Ministry (KDN) install biometric closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras along the Malaysia-Thailand border, particularly in Sungai Golok, to curb drug trafficking in the state. State Youth, Sports, Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) and Community Unity Committee chairman Zamakhshari Muhamad stated that this proposal emerged from discussions between the state government, police, and the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) on the necessity to enhance border security.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Zamakhshari suggested deploying biometric drones to monitor border movements and urged the immediate installation of scanners or detectors at the main entry point of the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) Complex in Rantau Panjang. He expressed concern that since the illegal route along the Rantau Panjang-Sungai Golok stretch was closed, all movements now occur through the main entry point, making it challenging to detect criminal activities without scanners. This statement was made during the winding-up session of the Kelantan State Legislative Assembly at the Kota Darulnaim Complex.
Furthermore, Zamakhshari called for a more comprehensive approach to tackle the online sale of drugs, including e-cigarettes and ‘magic mushroom’ vape products, which have become increasingly popular among students. He expressed hope that the federal government would allocate additional resources for awareness campaigns to address this issue. He stressed that drug abuse is not a localized issue and should not be politicized, as it poses a significant threat to the country that requires collective action.
Zamakhshari highlighted that according to AADK statistics from 2018 to 2024, Kelantan recorded a 43.48% increase in the number of drug addicts. This increase is compared to Selangor (71.68%), Johor (73.5%), and Penang (59%). Although Kelantan’s figures are below the national percentage of 47.45%, the state government is taking the issue seriously and is committed to strengthening efforts to combat it.