KUCHING: The National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) Sarawak recorded around 1,200 arrests related to drug offences across the state this year, reflecting the agency’s continued efforts to combat substance abuse despite limited manpower.
AADK Sarawak Director Abdul Hamediee Ibrahim said the figure indicates that the agency remains active in enforcement operations throughout the state.
“Up to now, we’ve made about 1,200 arrests. When we presented this in Putrajaya, it showed that we are indeed active compared to some other states, especially considering our capacity,” he said during the AADK-Media Synergy Programme held at Star on Stage, Jalan Borneo, here on Friday.
He explained that Sarawak is currently ranked ninth nationwide in terms of the number of drug arrests and twelfth in prevalence, which measures the number of cases per 100,000 population.
Abdul Hamediee added that although Sarawak recorded a relatively lower prevalence rate compared to northern states such as Kelantan, Terengganu, Perlis and Kedah, drug-related challenges remain a concern.
He also highlighted the agency’s resource constraints, noting that AADK Sarawak operates with only around 168 officers statewide, compared to more than 600 personnel in Kedah.
“Here in Sarawak, it’s the same faces doing everything. One day they are in enforcement, the next day they’re in schools or exhibitions. But despite these limitations, we’re still doing our best,” he said.
At present, AADK Sarawak has 3,412 active clients undergoing treatment and rehabilitation under its programmes, which include both institution-based and community-based rehabilitation.
Abdul Hamediee said the agency continues to restructure its operations to strengthen enforcement, prevention, and rehabilitation efforts across all divisions in Sarawak, except Kapit, which currently does not have an AADK office.
