By Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, Chairman Alliance For A Safe Community
KOTA KINABALU: I wish to commend the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) for their swift and effective action in arresting four individuals who were used as drug mules to transport bags of cannabis buds worth RM 8.3 million to Manchester in Britain.
Its vigilance has successfully prevented dangerous drugs from leaving our shores and has once again demonstrated the professionalism and commitment of our newly set up enforcement agency in safeguarding the nation and its borders.
This case is a stark reminder that drug syndicates today are using increasingly creative and manipulative methods to recruit unsuspecting individuals, especially through social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.
Many Malaysians are lured with promises of easy money, free travel, high-paying courier jobs or “safe deliveries,” when in reality they are being used to smuggle drugs.
We must remember:
Ignorance of the law is not an excuse.
Anyone caught carrying drugs—even if they claim they did not know—can still face the death penalty under Malaysian law or life imprisonment overseas.
No online offer is worth risking your life, reputation, and freedom.
Important Advice to Malaysians
1. Never agree to carry or check-in luggage for anyone, especially strangers or online acquaintances.
2. Be extremely cautious of job offers received through social media, especially those involving overseas travel with high pay and no clear job scope.
3. Do not be influenced by videos promising luxury or quick wealth—drug syndicates use social media influencers and fake accounts to trap victims.
4. If something sounds too easy or too good to be true, it is most likely a scam or a crime.
5. Parents should monitor the online activities of their children, as young people are the most vulnerable target.
6. Report suspicious messages, job offers, or individuals to the authorities.
Malaysia cannot afford to lose more lives to drug syndicates. Every citizen must stay alert and well-informed. Social media may seem harmless, but it has become a powerful tool for criminals to recruit drug mules, money mules, and scam victims.
Once again, credit must be given to AKPS and other enforcement agencies for their continued commitment in protecting Malaysia’s borders.
Their efforts must be supported with public education and awareness.
The best way to fight drug trafficking is not only through enforcement, but by ensuring Malaysians do not fall into the trap in the first place.
Let us stay vigilant, stay informed, and protect our families and the nation.
