The idea of conducting urine tests at concert venues to combat drug abuse is “impractical and time-consuming,” according to Datuk Ruslin Jusoh, Director-General of the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK).
Speaking at the agency’s monthly assembly on Tuesday, he emphasized the logistical challenges of screening large crowds in sprawling stadium settings.
“Concerts aren’t held in small halls but in vast stadiums. Testing everyone present isn’t feasible,” Ruslin noted.
Instead, the agency plans to bolster its presence at events and ramp up prevention campaigns, including anti-drug messaging on tickets and during pre-show activities.
Rising Drug Abuse Numbers Spark Concern
Drug abuse cases rose by 31.6% as of September last year compared to the same period in 2023, with 169,691 offenders identified.
The hardest-hit group, aged 19 to 39, accounted for over half of the total cases. Synthetic drugs, such as methamphetamine and ecstasy, were the most abused, comprising 70% of cases.
“This trend underscores the urgent need for innovative solutions,” Ruslin said, adding that AADK is drafting an Anti-Drug Communication Plan to deliver accurate, impactful messaging.
While emphasizing the importance of tackling the root causes of drug abuse, Ruslin expressed his commitment to ensuring the entertainment industry avoids being tarnished by associations with substance use, despite its impact on a minority of attendees.
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