BY NEVILLE TIMOTHY SANDERS & GILLIAN NESSLYN
KUCHING: In 2024, a total of 11,408 arrests were made related to drug and illegal substance abuse across Sarawak.
Out of this number, seven districts have been identified as red zones, namely Kuching, Samarahan, Sarikei, Sibu, Bintulu, Miri and Limbang.
Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, said that based on the records of these arrests, the figure brings the total to 33,115 arrests over the past three years (2022, 2023 and 2024).
“Besides the arrest operations, there were 8,389 enforcement operations, 527 arrests for individuals involved in drug trafficking, 1,829 individuals arrested for possession of drugs and illegal substances, and 9,052 individuals tested positive in urine screenings.
“In terms of percentage compared to the total population of Sarawak, which is about 2.5 million people, this only represents 1.32 per cent.
“However, the impact has already begun to affect community wellbeing, particularly in rural areas far from enforcement agency centres, treatment and rehabilitation facilities,” she said.
She said this at a press conference after chairing the One-Stop Committee (OSC) meeting on Combating Drug and Substance Abuse (MIDS) Bil. 1/2025 at Wisma Bapa Malaysia here today.
Meanwhile, Fatimah also highlighted the recognition of four individuals who received awards for successfully undergoing the drug rehabilitation process, reflecting the Sarawak government’s efforts in supporting individuals through recovery.
“Because of this, we awarded medals to these individuals for their success in completing the rehabilitation process and staying off drugs for two years.
“For us, this is part of our holistic approach in fighting against drug and substance abuse.
“For those who have been rehabilitated and remained drug-free for at least two years, we will give them recognition for their efforts,” she added.
On another note, Fatimah also urged those who are seeking help to do so before they are caught by the authorities.
“It is very important for them, because otherwise, their habit will continue and it will be detrimental to their health,” she said.
