How much of Malaysia’s drug abuse cases are now attributed to synthetic substances?

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Synthetic Drugs Constitute a Significant Majority of Malaysia's Drug Abuse Cases

Synthetic drugs now represent 73 per cent of all drug abuse cases in Malaysia. This alarming trend disproportionately affects young individuals, with approximately 84 per cent of those involved in synthetic drug abuse falling within the age range of 15 to 39 years old.
Rise of Synthetic Substances in Drug Abuse Landscape

The National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) has identified 'piu-piu' as a new and growing concern within Malaysia's drug abuse landscape. Unlike traditional drugs derived from plants, piu-piu is a synthetic substance created from a chemical mixture and is often incorporated into vape liquids. The street name 'piu-piu' is believed to describe the hallucinogenic effects experienced by users, often referred to as a "floating" or "drifting" sensation.
Youth Vulnerability and Vaping Trend

Experts highlight that the consumption of synthetic drugs through vaping presents a significant challenge, as vaping has become a prevalent trend among young people. Adolescents, in a critical stage of identity formation and peer group seeking, are particularly susceptible to experimenting with these substances to gain acceptance or follow current trends. Social media platforms further exacerbate this issue by influencing perceptions and behaviours, potentially normalising risky activities.
Health Implications and Detection Difficulties

The inclusion of synthetic drugs and psychoactive substances in vape liquids can lead to severe physical and mental health consequences, including impaired brain function, reduced ability to control behaviour, and susceptibility to hallucinations. These substances disrupt the brain's executive functions, affecting rational decision-making and impulse control. Unlike conventional drugs, the constantly evolving formulations and distribution methods of synthetic drugs make them more difficult for authorities to detect.

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How much of Malaysia’s drug abuse cases are now attributed to synthetic substances?

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