PETALING JAYA: Close to RM1bil worth of properties associated with drug-related crimes have been confiscated since 2019.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail highlighted the interconnection between drug trafficking, corruption, and organized crime, emphasizing Malaysia’s commitment to combat these threats through strict law enforcement measures.
He revealed that Malaysia has successfully seized nearly RM990mil worth of properties related to drug-related crimes since 2019, during his address at the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs session in Vienna.
Additionally, law enforcement agencies have dismantled 98 clandestine laboratories and apprehended 351 individuals involved in illicit activities, demonstrating significant progress in tackling drug-related issues.
Saifuddin acknowledged the challenges posed by narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, stressing the need for a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to address the root causes of drug-related problems.
He mentioned the establishment of a dedicated Cabinet-level mechanism in Malaysia to develop strategies aimed at reducing the supply and demand for drugs and psychotropic substances, as drug dependence continues to escalate.
Efforts to reform the treatment and rehabilitation approach, including amending the Drug Dependent Act 1983 to focus on a treatment-oriented paradigm, are being undertaken in Malaysia to address drug dependence and misuse.
A total of 16,865 import and export authorizations or permits were issued from 2020 to 2023 to control the movement of drugs and psychotropic substances, with a focus on regulating new substances detected by analytical laboratories.
Saifuddin highlighted the role of the Malaysian Volunteer Corps Department (Rela) in supporting border control operations and crackdowns on trafficking, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in safeguarding borders and combating transnational crimes.
He emphasized the need for enhanced international and regional cooperation in countering the World Drug Problem, pledging Malaysia’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations under international and regional treaties in combatting drug-related issues.
