INTELLIGENCE AND INVESTIGATION THE WAY FORWARD IN COMBATING USE OF BANNED SUBSTANCES

By Vikneswaran Raman

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 24 (Bernama) -- It is pertinent for the Malaysian Anti-Doping Agency (ADAMAS) to adopt new approaches such as intelligence and investigative work to curb the use of banned substances in sports.

Although education and awareness about anti-doping remain key aspects, such a strategic shift is needed to address the use of banned substances, which involves not only athletes but also healthy lifestyle practitioners. 

In fact, ADAMAS is increasingly concerned that methods such as biohacking and flush are being taught through social media platforms like TikTok.

Biohacking refers to various methods of manipulating the body's biology to enhance performance, including the use of banned substances, while flush techniques are aimed at concealing the effects of doping before tests are conducted.

Former ADAMAS director Azura Abidin said that currently, only athletes who test positive for doping are called for hearings and face actions such as suspensions, while suppliers or syndicates involved seem to escape repercussions.

“If we look at other countries, such as in Europe, they have long been conducting intelligence and investigations, not only into common drugs but also in sports. In Poland, for example, they once raided a laboratory processing anabolic steroids in collaboration with Interpol.

“With the review of the World Anti-Doping Code set to take effect in 2027, ADAMAS is also reviewing this code with new scope additions. It will also require additional staff if implemented,” she told Bernama recently.

She said the implementation of this expanded scope of work requires cooperation from several other agencies such as the police, Ministry of Health (MOH), National Anti-Drug Agency and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.

Azura was appointed the Youth and Sports Department director-general on Oct 14 after five years leading ADAMAS.

She also highlighted the proactive action taken by the Johor Health Department in seizing RM2.3 million worth of unregistered anabolic steroids from several premises in Johor Bahru last July, as part of efforts to combat the unauthorised use of these drugs.

Commenting on the use of banned substances, she mentioned two scenarios: intentional use to enhance performance, build muscle, and lose weight, or unintentional intake through supplements, medications, or other products.

“What we are trying to do is prevent these accidental cases. Based on previous cases, some tested positive due to supplements, weight loss, or beauty products widely sold over the counter or online.

“When MOH bans or raids a certain brand, they will remarket the product under a different name, but the contents remain the same. There is too much to control,” she said, adding that para-athletes are more aware and cautious about the medications and supplements they take.

Azura urged competition organisers, including at the amateur level, to enhance education and awareness regarding the use of banned substances and to promote clean competitions.

“Nowadays, everything is about quick results, like achieving an attractive body, losing weight, building muscles, or enhancing performance, whether socially or as athletes. So some resort to supplements to speed up the process. 

“The long-term use of steroids can lead not only to adverse health effects, such as damage to internal organs including the liver, kidneys and heart, but also increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, hormonal failures and psychological issues such as depression and aggression,” she said.

Additionally, she noted that the use of banned substances can tarnish the image and overall ecosystem of the involved sports.

-- BERNAMA