KOTA KINABALU: 98.4 pc of drug cases in Sabah involve synthetic drugs, mainly Amphetamine-Type Stimulants (ATS).
Nominated assemblywoman Grace Lee Li Mei said it underscores rising concerns over substance abuse in the state.
The figure was highlighted at the 2026 Kampung Aspirasi Bebas Dadah (KABD) workshop here, attended by 34 community leaders from Kampung Benoni, Papar, and Kampung Likas, Kota Kinabalu on Tuesday.
The programme focused on empowering village leaders to identify at-risk individuals early and strengthen prevention, rehabilitation, and enforcement efforts at the community level.
“Drug abuse is changing in pattern and requires faster, coordinated action. In Sabah, ATS cases dominate, which is deeply concerning for our youth and future leaders,” said Grace, who officiated the event.
She added that the initiative relies on community leadership to build stronger support systems and promote drug-free villages across Sabah.