New Strategy Needed to Combat Drug Threat in Malaysia:Ahmad Zahid

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia must adopt a new, non-conventional approach to tackle the growing threat of drug abuse, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said on Saturday.

Speaking at the opening of the 46th General Assembly of the Malaysian Drug Prevention Association (Pemadam), Ahmad Zahid stressed that changing strategies is critical as the trend in drug abuse has become increasingly alarming, particularly with the rise of synthetic drugs and the use of social media platforms for drug distribution.

“The government has spent more than RM50 billion on prevention, enforcement, and treatment, but drug abuse continues to increase. We must acknowledge this failure and put aside our differences. While it may be impossible to achieve a 100 percent drug-free country, we must at least reduce it to the bare minimum,” he said.

Citing a report by the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), Ahmad Zahid noted that 68 percent of drug abusers are young men aged 19 to 39, including professionals. He warned that this trend could reduce productivity in the long run, as the nation’s young workforce is vital to all sectors.

He urged enforcement agencies and the Fire and Rescue Department to adopt more interactive communication with target groups, focusing not just on delivering lectures but also on listening and understanding the emotions of young people.

“We cannot rely solely on old methods like lectures and pamphlets. We must use communication approaches through digital technology,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid proposed that Pemadam set up digital communications teams in every state, enhance training and advocacy modules for volunteers, and develop an integrated information portal and smart applications. He also called for stronger strategic collaborations with influencers and social media communities to better reach younger audiences.