CDR AND NCID STRENGTHEN STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP TO TACKLE DRUG ABUSE IN PENANG

19 MAY 2025, GEORGETOWN — The Centre for Drug Research (CDR), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), convened a strategic meeting with the Penang Narcotic Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) at the Royal Malaysia Police Headquarters, Georgetown. This initiative reflects a joint commitment to address the ongoing challenges related to drug abuse in the state. The session focused on enhancing collaboration in research and community outreach. It was attended by senior representatives from both organisations, including the director and deputy director of NCID and several high-ranking police officers. Representing CDR were Director Professor Dr. Vikneswaran Murugaiyah, Deputy Director Associate Professor Dr. Zurina Hassan, Associate Professor Dr. Darshan Singh and Mrs. Noorazmahani Md Kasim. During the meeting, CDR experts shared insights into the national drug abuse scenario, with a particular emphasis on the evolving discourse around kratom science.

Key discussion points included the integration of CDR's scientific expertise into NCID's training modules and the joint development of community-based anti-drug campaigns. NCID also indicated interest in engaging CDR for expert consultations on complex drug-related cases requiring academic insight.

“This collaboration reflects our commitment to harnessing academic knowledge for real-world challenges, and we believe CDR’s scientific expertise will be instrumental in shaping more effective drug prevention strategies,” stated an NCID representative.

The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to pursue deeper collaboration through structured activities and sustained engagement, further supporting Malaysia's alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3 on health and well-being and SDG 16 on peace, justice, and strong institutions.