PDRM Seeks 15,707 More Officers to Combat Growing Drug Crisis*

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 11 — The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is urgently requesting 15,707 additional officers to strengthen its Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (JSJN) amid a rising and increasingly sophisticated drug crisis. JSJN director Datuk Seri Khaw Kok Chin stated that current resources are insufficient to tackle advanced drug trafficking networks using encrypted communications and the dark web.

The department has proposed adding 1,000 positions but faces uncertainty due to financial constraints. Khaw emphasized the need for more manpower, technology, and inter-agency cooperation to counter global drug syndicates, especially along Malaysia’s porous borders. He also highlighted a rising number of drug addicts, driven by social and economic pressures, and stressed the importance of a multi-faceted approach that combines enforcement with preventive measures.

Khaw also noted that the establishment of an international narcotics hub is being considered to improve global cooperation in fighting the drug trade.