In an effort to reduce drug abuse cases, Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has announced that special attention will be given to the districts of Tawau and Keningau in Sabah this year. The Chief Minister identified Merotai in Tawau and Tuarid Taud in Keningau as high-risk areas that need to be targeted to bring down the number of drug abuse cases to a “green” level.
During the state level drug eradication action council meeting in Kota Kinabalu, Hajiji also highlighted that Penampang and Balung in Tawau will be the focus areas for 2025. These efforts are part of the ongoing initiatives to combat and eliminate drug abuse in the state.
Hajiji emphasized the importance of collaboration between local authorities, government agencies such as the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), and other enforcement agencies to address the issue of drug abuse, which he described as the nation’s top social problem. He called for a united effort to safeguard the future of children, the well-being of the community, and the prosperity of the nation.
He stressed that collective effort and commitment are essential to implement policies and initiatives effectively, particularly in achieving the “Dadah Terkawal 2025” plan. The AADK has developed realistic and achievable key performance indicators (KPI) and plans for this purpose, but success requires full dedication from all stakeholders.
Since 2023, a total of 28 districts in Sabah have conducted drug eradication action council meetings, during which district committee chairpersons and volunteer squads were appointed. Hajiji urged district leaders to maintain consistency in conducting meetings, programs, and activities to support the overarching plan, emphasizing the need for systematic implementation.
