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THE number of female drug addicts in Kelantan rose 13.7% to 598 last year from 526 previously, with partner influence, domestic conflict and emotional distress identified as major contributing factors.
National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh said women could be driven to drug use by stress arising from domestic conflict and problematic behaviour by partners, while some were also manipulated into believing drugs could improve their appearance or productivity.
“They are influenced by those close to them into believing that stimulant-type drugs can aid in weight loss, flatten the stomach post-childbirth, and provide extra energy to complete household chores faster,” he said.
Ruslin said women in the state rarely became involved in substance abuse on their own, with the risk increasing significantly when they lived in households where family members, particularly husbands, were drug users.
He said the problem could be compounded by neglect and loneliness, particularly following divorce or the breakdown of a relationship.
Amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) accounted for 557 of the cases recorded last year, making them the most commonly used substances among female drug users in the state.
Women aged between 19 and 39 accounted for 409 cases, forming the largest age group.
“In summary, female drug addiction in Kelantan is often a manifestation of interpersonal stress and manipulation by partners within an unhealthy domestic ecosystem,” he said.
Meanwhile, rehabilitation efforts under the Treatment and Rehabilitation in Community (RPDK) initiative recorded positive results.
The Client Recovery Index (IKK) for female clients reached 76.4% last year, with 42 of 55 assessed female clients achieving good or excellent recovery status.
The outcome highlighted the role of rehabilitation centre support and active family involvement in helping clients sustain recovery within their communities. - September 20, 2026