Kelantan has been ranked the third-highest state in Malaysia for drug addiction and abuse cases per 100,000 population, following Terengganu and Perlis, according to the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK).
AADK Director-General Ruslin Jusoh revealed that Kelantan recorded 11,280 drug users, placing it third nationwide with 597 cases per 100,000 residents. Terengganu topped the list with 663 cases, followed by Perlis with 609 cases. Kedah and Pahang were ranked fourth and fifth, with 553 and 495 cases respectively.
However, Ruslin noted a 5.4% decrease in Kelantan’s drug abuse rate during the first three months of this year compared to the same period last year.
He disclosed the figures after chairing the Kelantan State Anti-Drugs Action Council meeting, which was presided over by Chief Minister Mohd Nassuruddin Daud.
Amphetamine-Type Stimulants Dominate Drug Use
According to AADK’s report for January to March, amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS)—predominantly “pil kuda”—remain the most widely abused drug category in Kelantan, accounting for 89.3% of all cases, or 10,071 users.
This was followed by opiates (766 cases), psychotropic pills (277 cases), cannabis (41 cases), and other addictive substances (277 cases).
Border Proximity Drives High Drug Statistics
Ruslin highlighted that states with high drug abuse rates often share borders with neighboring countries, which contributes to the influx of illicit substances.
About The Author
