Kuala lumpur: Enforcement agencies, particularly those operating along the national borders, must further enhance their effectiveness in efforts to combat smuggling, especially drug trafficking, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar acknowledged the challenges in addressing the issue due to Malaysia's vast borders over air, land, and sea, emphasizing the need for close cooperation among all agencies to prevent border incursions. He noted that even with efficient agencies, the vastness of the borders makes it difficult to manage enforcement effectively. Anwar stressed the importance of the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK), the Narcotics Department, and the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) in improving their efficiency to safeguard the nation.

The Prime Minister assured that if these agencies require funding, facilities, or equipment to address the drug problem, the government would try to provide the necessary resources. He made these remarks during his speech at the 2025 Anti-Drug Day Celebration at Dataran Darulaman.

Anwar highlighted the need for the government to adopt a humble approach in combating drug-related issues and emphasized the importance of collaborating with all parties to make every possible effort for the nation's welfare. He pointed out that Malaysia's peaceful and stable environment, along with rapid technological advancement, has made the country attractive for both positive and negative activities, including drug and alcohol smuggling, human trafficking, and the illicit cigarette trade.

In response to these concerns, the government has appointed a capable figure to lead the newly established AKPS. Anwar also expressed his worries about the growing number of individuals, particularly Malay youth, involved in drug abuse. He highlighted the detrimental impact on productivity and the future of young people, especially those from poor backgrounds with limited educational opportunities, whose lives are being ruined by drugs.