02/07/2026 09:40 AM

Syabu, Ketum Abuse New Trend Among Drivers, Poses Road Safety Risk - AADK

SEREMBAN, July 2 (Bernama) -- Methamphetamine, or syabu, and ketum abuse has become an emerging trend among drivers, including commercial vehicle operators, over the past five years, posing a greater risk to road safety.

National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh said the trend was believed to stem from the perception that the substances could help users maintain their energy levels while working, particularly for extended periods.

He said this was evident from the integrated anti-drug operation involving commercial vehicle drivers conducted nationwide yesterday, during which 244 drivers were screened and 22, aged between 21 and 61, were arrested after testing positive for syabu, ketum and ganja.

“Most drivers take these substances to stay energised. Syabu, for instance, is a stimulant that enables them to work longer hours, while ketum has emerged as a new trend among drivers seeking to maintain their stamina during long periods of driving.

“However, when the effects of the drugs wear off, users may collapse or become unconscious, while when high, they may be unable to control their actions, which can lead to accidents,” he told reporters after the operation last night. Also present was Road Transport Department (JPJ) director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramly.

The 10-hour operation, conducted by JPJ in collaboration with several agencies, including the AADK, Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), police and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), began at 8 am.

Ruslin also said the trend was detected among both youths and middle-aged individuals, with the highest addiction rate recorded among those aged 19 to 39, at about 70 per cent.

In another development, he said the rate of addiction for synthetic drugs such as syabu, ketamine and ecstasy has reached about 80 per cent, reflecting a worrying trend.

Meanwhile, Aedy Fadly said JPJ would take firm action without compromise, including withholding vocational licences (PSV or GDL) for investigation purposes and suspending the driving licences of drivers found to be positive for drugs.

He said that at the same time, transport companies would also be held accountable to ensure that the drivers they employed complied with the law.

“We will also submit this report to APAD for further action. Failure to comply with licensing conditions or employing drivers involved in drug abuse may result in action, including the suspension of the company’s operator’s licence,” he said.

--BERNAMA

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