KUCHING: The rise of drug abuse in Sarawak remains a pressing concern for the authorities, with a holistic approach viewed as essential in tackling this issue.
Tellian Assemblyman Royston Valentine said that, in addition to enforcement by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), government and private agencies as well as responsible bodies such as the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), the Malaysian Drug Prevention Association (PEMADAM), Anti-Drug Squad and the One Stop Committee (OSC) are encouraged to strengthen education and awareness programmes in schools, institutes of higher learning and within the wider community.
“These efforts include broadening access to treatment and rehabilitation centres, as well as enhancing inter-agency cooperation to support enforcement operations and more proactive prevention initiatives,” he said.
He made these remarks while debating the Supply (2026) Bill, 2025, during the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting on Thursday.
He also took the opportunity to congratulate Sarawak PDRM, particularly the Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department, for taking appropriate action, recording a total of 11,315 arrests between 1 January and 16 November this year, 584 of whom were drug traffickers.
“Congratulations are also extended to AADK Sarawak for their commitment in carrying out special preventive operations and raids on drug dens, whether in urban areas, the interior, or border regions,” he added.
In this regard, he stressed that preventing drug abuse is a shared responsibility, requiring coordinated action between the authorities, government agencies and the community to ensure Sarawak remains free from the scourge of drugs. -UKASnews
