PETALING JAYA: Terengganu recorded Malaysia’s highest rate of drug and substance abuse this year, at 735 cases for every 100,000 people, followed by Kelantan (694), Kedah (669) and Perlis (646), according to the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK).
In a statement today, AADK said data up to June showed that 130,307 cases had been recorded nationwide this year, equivalent to 381 cases per 100,000 people.
The agency said geographical factors, including cross-border smuggling routes, were among the risks contributing to the problem in the four states.
It said it was strengthening enforcement, prevention and community programmes in high-risk areas.
AADK noted that as of Oct 18, 4,253 enforcement operations had been conducted nationwide, resulting in 30,157 people being detained for treatment and rehabilitation.
The agency also reported an increase in voluntary treatment, with an average of 232 people seeking help each month this year, compared with 75 a month in 2025.
It attributed the increase to amendments to the Drug Dependants (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act 1983, which took effect on Aug 22, 2025.