Malaysia's drug crisis has reached the top levels of government as ministers battle a growing problem among young people. Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh revealed that Cabinet members are actively discussing the surge in amphetamine addiction cases. The government has teamed up with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to crack down on dealers who sell drugs through social media platforms. Primary school children are buying dangerous substances through WhatsApp and other digital apps. Parents must watch their kids more closely when they use smartphones and tablets.
Official statistics from the National Anti-Drug Agency show that 117,000 people between ages 15 and 39 are caught up in substance abuse problems. Kelantan leads the country with the highest number of addiction cases among its residents. Hannah visited the Kota Baru rehabilitation center and met with young clients who shared their troubling stories. Many teenagers started using drugs before they turned 18 and some began their dangerous habits during elementary school. The minister expressed alarm at how early children are experimenting with harmful substances.
The rehabilitation center reports impressive recovery numbers with 79 percent of clients successfully completing their treatment programs. However, keeping former addicts away from their old friends and dealers remains the biggest challenge for counselors. Hannah stressed that anyone can overcome addiction with proper support and determination. The ministry plans to spread awareness through movie theater campaigns and other public outreach efforts. Young people struggling with substance abuse can seek help at treatment centers without waiting for court orders.
Official statistics from the National Anti-Drug Agency show that 117,000 people between ages 15 and 39 are caught up in substance abuse problems. Kelantan leads the country with the highest number of addiction cases among its residents. Hannah visited the Kota Baru rehabilitation center and met with young clients who shared their troubling stories. Many teenagers started using drugs before they turned 18 and some began their dangerous habits during elementary school. The minister expressed alarm at how early children are experimenting with harmful substances.
The rehabilitation center reports impressive recovery numbers with 79 percent of clients successfully completing their treatment programs. However, keeping former addicts away from their old friends and dealers remains the biggest challenge for counselors. Hannah stressed that anyone can overcome addiction with proper support and determination. The ministry plans to spread awareness through movie theater campaigns and other public outreach efforts. Young people struggling with substance abuse can seek help at treatment centers without waiting for court orders.
