From syabu to fentanyl, synthetic scourge fuels 70pc of Malaysia’s 192,000 abuse cases, says Saifuddin Nasution (opens original article in a new tab)

Malaysia's synthetic drug abuse crisis saw 141,817 cases in 2024, with 70% involving Amphetamine-Type Stimulants and fentanyl, concentrated in east coast states and affecting mainly young adults.

• Synthetic drug abuse in Malaysia accounted for 70% of 192,000 cases in 2024, with ATS and fentanyl being the main substances.
• Fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic drug, has been added to scheduled substances but its spread remains less severe than other synthetic drugs.
• Drug abuse cases are concentrated in east coast states, with 75% of cases involving individuals aged 15-39.