Drug addiction remains a serious challenge in Malaysia, with 131,609 new drug addicts recorded last year—a worrying figure that highlights the need for stronger prevention, intervention, and awareness programs.
To address this, Agensi Antidadah Kebangsaan (AADK) has intensified efforts to combat drug abuse, focusing on education, community engagement, and enforcement.
However, prevention doesn’t stop at awareness. Early identification through drug testing can help organisations, workplaces, and communities identify individuals at risk and provide support before addiction worsens.
Why is drug addiction increasing?
The rise in new addiction cases signals ongoing challenges in drug prevention and control. Several factors contribute to this worrying trend:
- Easy access to drugs – Availability in certain high-risk areas.
- Social & economic pressures – Financial struggles, stress, and peer influence.
- Lack of early intervention – Many individuals only seek help after serious consequences.
AADK Director General Datuk Ruslin Jusoh emphasises the need for a multi-sector approach, urging government agencies, NGOs, and communities to work together to curb drug abuse.
Strengthening prevention through education
AADK recognises that education is the foundation of drug prevention. In 2024, AADK conducted 29 prevention programs with 3,371 activities focusing on four key sectors:
✅ Families – Educating parents on early signs of drug abuse.
✅ Schools & universities – Awareness programs to prevent drug use among students.
✅ Workplaces – Promoting drug-free policies and testing initiatives.
✅ Communities – Collaborating with local organisations to spread awareness.
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Public awareness campaigns: Keeping the conversation going
Beyond structured education, AADK has also prioritised large-scale awareness initiatives. In 2024, 15 public awareness programs were conducted, involving 78,923 activities such as:
- Talks & seminars – Engaging directly with the community.
- Campaigns & promotions – Spreading anti-drug messages through various platforms.
- Digital outreach – Using social media to educate and reach younger audiences.
Skuad Antidadah: A community-driven initiative
One of AADK’s most impactful programs is Skuad Antidadah, a community-based initiative designed to:
✅ Encourage youth and communities to participate in positive activities.
✅Provide alternatives to social issues linked to drug abuse.
✅Promote peer-to-peer support for drug prevention.
As of January 31, 2025, the initiative comprises 180,438 members across the nation. The majority of these members are domestic individuals between the ages of 18 and 45, identified as the demographic with the highest risk profile.
📌 The goal: Encourage healthy lifestyle choices and reduce drug-related risks.
Communities can take proactive steps by implementing random drug testing policies, ensuring that individuals at risk receive the right support and intervention before it's too late. Find out how drug test kits work.
How everyone can contribute to a drug-free Malaysia
With 131,609 new addiction cases recorded last year, Malaysia must take collective action. Everyone has a role to play in prevention:
- Parents & educators – Start conversations about the dangers of drugs early.
- Employers – Implement workplace drug-free policies and support employees.
- Community leaders – Organise awareness programs and support addiction recovery initiatives.
AADK’s education programs, awareness campaigns, and community-driven efforts are making a difference—but change requires consistent effort from all sectors.
Need expert advice on workplace drug and alcohol testing? Contact Andatech today to learn more about workplace drug testing and how to choose the right tool for your job.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general reference only. Please seek advice from professionals according to your business’s needs.
Written by Andatech Malaysia
