MARAN: The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, said the fight against drugs must be treated as an all-out ‘jihad’ to protect the people and safeguard the future of the state.
Al-Sultan Abdullah said drugs are no longer merely an individual problem but a calamity that destroys families, harms society, and hinders national and state development.
“There is no greater disaster than seeing our youth enslaved by the scourge of drugs.
“This struggle must be regarded as a major jihad to defend the dignity of our people,” he said during the closing ceremony of the Jelajah Pahang Teguh Dadah Perkawalan 2025, held as part of the state-level Anti-Drug Day at Dewan Balora Mastika, Bandar Tun Abdul Razak, Jengka, today.
Al-Sultan Abdullah also expressed concern after records up to July showed that 1,317 drug addicts, or 31.32 per cent of all addicts in Pahang, came from Felda settlements.
“Felda is a symbol of the nation’s success. Do not let it become a hub for drugs. Felda leaders must go to the ground, not just focus on profit and politics,” he said.
Al-Sultan Abdullah also reminded all not to underestimate border threats, as the East Coast has become a key route for international syndicates smuggling drugs via fishing boats, cargo ships, and small vessels.
His Majesty stressed that stronger collaboration between maritime agencies, the police, and the navy is imperative to prevent the seas and coastlines from becoming entry points for illicit substances.
He also voiced concern over the vaping trend, describing it as “api dalam sekam” (a hidden danger).
“On this basis, Pahang has issued a fatwa imposing a total ban on vaping, including its use, sale, and distribution,” he said.
Meanwhile, Al-Sultan Abdullah said he wasp proud to see the presence of over 500 rehabilitated drug addicts at the event.
“Every step towards recovery is a victory. Never look back, because every individual deserves a second chance.
“Parents must serve as the first line of defence to protect their children from the influence of drugs, while authorities must strengthen preventive efforts collectively,” he said.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
