THE police have allocated RM1.2 million to Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) for research and specialised training, focusing on countering the threat of drugs and new psychoactive substances (NPS) in Malaysia, said Deputy IGP Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, adding that the funds will be used to acquire laboratory equipment, enhancing the institution’s capacity for extensive research in this area.

“The joint research study with UKM involves seven aspects including the details of active compounds to determine the chemicals used in producing drugs to enable police to work with the Poisons Board to create a standard operating procedure framework or a new law to strictly control the chemicals.

“This study will also identify chemicals that can induce violent behavior in drug users, as nearly 60% of addicts are associated with violence and property crimes,” he told a press conference after a meeting of the steering committee for the joint venture between Bukit Aman and UKM in Kuala Lumpur today.

This partnership will also conduct studies on the minimum dosage leading to addiction. It aims to identify treatment processes, recovery methods, and research on a drug’s original molecule, facilitating police investigations by determining the drug type.

In addition, an NPS forensic drug database will be established at the Kuala Lumpur forensic laboratory which will serve as a reference for law enforcement agencies in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.

According to Ayob, the police and UKM will also work together in studies to develop better quality biosensor electrode test strips for assessing drug residue concentration in sewage treatment plants because most drug laboratories are located in difficult-to-access locations.

“We will also implement short-term courses and so far eight officers have been involved and they will also undergo six long-term courses and pursue two professional certificates to enhance our capabilities in investigating and combating drug syndicates,” he said.

Earlier, Ayob presented a mock cheque for RM1.2 million to UKM vice-chancellor Prof Dr Mohd Ekhwan Toriman. – Bernama, January 8, 2024.