KOTA BARU: Ganja buds have become the preferred form of cannabis on the black market in the country due to their stronger psychoactive effects and growing demand.
National Anti-Drugs Agency (Nada) director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh said that more users and drug traffickers are turning to ganja buds because they contain a higher concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary compound responsible for intoxicating effects.
“Ganja buds are not a new product but they have gained popularity over the past few years,” he told the New Straits Times.
“Previously, most users consumed ganja leaves either by smoking them or extracting oil. However, with modern agricultural technology, much higher quality ganja buds are being produced.”
Ruslin said the global legalisation of medical cannabis in several countries has further fuelled the demand for premium-grade ganja products.
He said that ganja buds are the most potent part of the cannabis plant.
“They grow at the top of the plant and are also known as ‘buds’ or ‘nuggets’,” he said.
“Even though they come from the same plant, they are significantly stronger than the leaves or stems.”
They can be smoked, infused into food or drinks to make edibles, or turned into liquid for vapes, he added.
Despite their growing popularity, Ruslin said ganja buds remain classified as dangerous drugs under Malaysia’s Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
International studies have found that cannabis abuse can lead to two major effects, he said.
“Hallucinogenic effects, which disrupt perception and may cause hallucinations, and depressant effects, which can induce calmness but impair brain and body function.”
Ruslin added that due to their high THC content, ganja buds produce a more intense and longer-lasting high compared to ganja leaves.
“Users may experience extreme euphoria, sudden mood swings, or hallucinations, especially when taken in large doses,” he said.
“Some users may feel overly energetic after consumption, while others may overdose and suffer from impaired movement or judgement.”
In contrast, ganja leaves tend to have milder and slower effects, but still pose risks of addiction and mental impairment if used regularly, he said.
In conclusion, Ruslin said ganja buds are far more dangerous than cannabis leaves due to their higher THC content.
“However, both substances are illegal in Malaysia and can severely harm the body, mind, and future if abused,” he said.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
