PUTRAJAYA: The Cabinet Committee on Combating Drug Abuse (JKMD) has set three objectives to improve the fight against drug abuse, aiming for a more comprehensive and effective approach.
Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, the Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of JKMD, outlined the three objectives as follows: eliminating drug smuggling and distribution, expanding access to treatment and rehabilitation, and enhancing the ability to prevent drug-related dangers.
Under the objective of combating drug smuggling and trafficking, Ahmad Zahid mentioned plans to eradicate “rat trails” and illegal jetties used by smugglers in Perlis, Kelantan, and Kedah to prevent the entry of illicit drugs into the country.
“In addition, stricter controls need to be implemented by amending the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 to impose heavier penalties for drug distribution and possession,” he stated in a press release during the JKMD Meeting No. 2 in 2023.
Ahmad Zahid emphasized the need to strengthen the Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (JSJN) of the Royal Malaysia Police in order to combat drug trafficking in a more systematic and comprehensive manner.
Regarding the issue of drug supply through online platforms, the government is currently studying the necessity of introducing legal provisions to regulate all e-commerce platforms. The aim is to prevent the sale and distribution of drugs via online applications.
In terms of widening access to treatment and rehabilitation, Ahmad Zahid stressed the importance of amending the Drug Addicts (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act 1983 and the Registration of Criminals and Undesirable Persons Act 1969 (Act 7), in order to expand access to treatment services for drug abusers.
“By expanding this access, we can divert drug abusers, as stated under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, into treatment and rehabilitation programs, as well as effectively address substance abuse issues such as ketum,” he explained.
Regarding the objective of enhancing society’s ability to combat the dangers of drugs, Ahmad Zahid mentioned the government’s plan to provide a strategic and comprehensive communication plan. This plan aims to increase the involvement of communities and non-governmental organizations in the fight against drug abuse.
“By empowering society and encouraging quick action, we can provide early prevention of drug dangers by educating at-risk groups to protect themselves from the grasp of drug abuse,” he added.
