DRUG ADDICTION NOT CONFINED TO THE POOR - PEMADAM

KOTA BHARU, Dec 29 (Bernama) -- The perception that drug addiction affects only the poor or underprivileged is inaccurate, as it can occur among people of all economic backgrounds.

Kelantan National Association for the Prevention of Drug Abuse (Pemadam) chairman Zamakhshari Muhamad said the perception has long existed within society.

“We are often led to believe that drug addiction only affects the poor, but in reality, even those who are financially well-off can fall victim to it.

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“Some become involved due to life pressures, loneliness or environmental influences, while others may start out of curiosity before eventually becoming trapped in the problem,” he told Bernama when contacted today.

Zamakhshari, who is also state Youth, Sports, NGOs and Community Unity Committee chairman, said the drug issue cannot be addressed through arrests and punishment alone and must instead focus on early prevention and community involvement.

“The National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) has implemented hundreds of programmes involving families, schools, workplaces and local communities.

“This approach is crucial as drug problems usually begin in the environments closest to daily life,” he said.

He added that change will occur if the community is aware, willing to speak out and cooperate with authorities and relevant agencies, as the drug issue can spread to others if left unaddressed.

Previously, Zamakhshari said drug abuse cases in Kelantan showed a 7.4 per cent decrease this year compared with 2024.

According to statistics, the number of drug addicts dropped from 15,448 in 2024 to 14,320 in 2025.

-- BERNAMA