Selangor Journal
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail speaks at the Domestic Security Conference 2024 at Marriott Putrajaya on September 2, 2024. — Picture via FACEBOOK/SAIFUDDIN NASUTION ISMAIL

Domestic security conference adopts resolution to tackle drug crimes

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 2 — The Domestic Security Conference 2024 agreed on several strategies to combat drug and substance crimes, including the use of advanced technology such as drones, and to strengthen cooperation between national and international security agencies.

Home Affairs Ministry secretary-general Datuk Ruji Ubi said the conference, held for the first time, also adopted a resolution calling for immediate action against drug and substance crimes.

“Commitment and follow-up action from all stakeholders are crucial to ensure the successful implementation of this resolution, as drug and substance crimes are identified as a major threat requiring immediate and ongoing attention,” he said when presenting the conference outcome here today.

Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail was also present.

Other strategies outlined include implementing more aggressive enforcement operations both domestically and internationally to combat drug smuggling; empowering existing laws; and launching public awareness programmes that highlight the importance of social security and encourage local communities to actively participate.

With over 800 participants, the one-day conference themed “Keselamatan Bukan Untuk Dikompromi” sought to comprehensively identify major threats to the country’s security and public order based on data and to formulate strategies to tackle these issues.

Findings from the conference will be presented at the National Security Council meeting and will be integral to the ministry’s Strategic Plan 2026-2030, while also providing valuable input for the 13th Malaysia Plan.

Meanwhile, Saifuddin Nasution said there are an estimated 135,000 drug addicts in Malaysia, based on data from the Health Ministry, the National Anti-Drug Agency, the Narcotics Crime Investigation Department, and the Narcotics Addiction Rehabilitation Centre.

“Sixty-eight per cent of prison inmates are involved in drug-related offences, either under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 or other acts.

“We must address this issue as it can lead to problems, including (increased) crime rate and overcrowding in prisons… The effects are interconnected,” he told a press conference after the closing ceremony of the conference.

Saifuddin Nasution said national security threats range from unauthorised and foreign fishermen encroaching on national waters to drug abuse.

As such, he said the ministry will use the conference findings to formulate relevant policies.

Regarding Malaysia’s desire to maintain its position as the 10th most peaceful country in the Global Peace Index (GPI), Saifuddin Nasution said it is a realistic target that must be achieved for the benefit of the people and the nation.

He said a strong position in the index reflects the public’s sense of comfort and safety and enhances international perceptions of Malaysia, potentially attracting more investors.

The media reported on June 15 that Malaysia climbed nine spots in the 2024 GPI, securing 10th spot as one of the world’s most peaceful countries this year.

The GPI serves as the premier metric for global peacefulness, offering comprehensive data-driven insights into peace trends, its economic significance and strategies for fostering peaceful societies.

— Bernama

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