Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stated on August 16 at the 2026 PKR National Congress in Ayer Keroh, Melaka, that poverty and social problems like drug abuse threaten the Malay community more than other ethnic groups such as Chinese or Indians [1, 2, 3, 4]. He said, "Malays are not threatened because of the Chinese in this country. Malays are threatened if Malays are poor. Malays are threatened if Malays are the ones most affected by drug problems. This is a threat to the Malay community" [1].
Saifuddin cited data showing that about 560 people per 100,000 population nationally are involved in drug addiction or drug-related offences in Malaysia [1, 2, 3, 4]. He noted that Malay-majority states including Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu have rates exceeding 1,000 per 100,000 population, indicating a higher impact in these areas [1, 2, 3, 4]. The data were compiled from multiple sources including Bukit Aman’s Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department, the Health Ministry, the National Anti-Drug Agency, and 47 private rehabilitation centres [1, 4].
The highest involvement in drug abuse was among Malays aged 15 to 39 who have education levels at or below Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) [1, 2, 3]. Saifuddin criticized political leaders focusing on racial or identity politics, urging them instead to create jobs, develop states, and manage the economy to reduce drug problems among Malay youths. He said, "When you do not focus on developing your state and only keep raising DAP, DAP, DAP, you do not take care of employment opportunities. When jobs are not created, young people get involved in drugs" [1].
He also called on PAS to examine the social and economic causes of drug abuse rather than blaming the DAP party for problems within the Malay community [4]. The speech marked the winding-up of Saifuddin’s remarks at the national congress today, focusing attention on pressing social challenges facing Malays.
