RANAU: A total of 30 motorcyclists successfully completed the Ranau 2-Wheel Anti-Drug Squad Roadshow Convoy held in conjunction with the 2026 Drug-Free Aspiration Tour programme at Padang Bandaran, Pekan Ranau, recently.
The convoy, which received encouraging participation, was jointly organised by the Sabah National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), AADK Ranau District, the Ranau District Anti-Drug Squad and Gabungan Belia Ranau.
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The programme was officiated by Ranau Member of Parliament Datuk Jonathan Yasin. Also present were Sabah AADK Director Elmariah Chung and Ranau District Officer Tinus Manggam.
Participants flagged off from Padang Pekan Ranau and travelled to three checkpoints – Pasar Besar Ranau, Kompleks Sukan Ranau and the Kampung Lohan 1 area.
Along the route, convoy participants distributed anti-drug awareness pamphlets to members of the public as part of efforts to educate the community on the dangers of drug abuse.
Speaking at the event, Jonathan issued a stern warning on the dangers of ketum abuse, saying prolonged consumption could lead to serious health complications, including brain and kidney damage.
He revealed that there had been reports of several deaths in the Ranau district linked to kidney failure complications associated with ketum addiction.
Jonathan said drug abuse continues to have a destructive impact on society, contributing to health problems, economic losses and social instability.
“Its consequences extend far beyond the individual user, placing a burden on public resources, destroying families and contributing to higher crime rates,” he said.
He added that injecting drug use remains a major factor in the spread of infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, while impairment caused by drugs also contributes to road accidents and workplace injuries.
“Emergency rooms and hospitals bear a heavy burden treating overdoses, chronic illnesses and injuries associated with addiction, resulting in higher public healthcare costs.
“Drug abuse is also often linked to increased rates of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety and psychosis, placing further strain on mental health services,” he said.
Organisers hope the roadshow will strengthen community unity and raise awareness in efforts to build a safer, healthier and drug-free society.
