KOTA SAMARAHAN – Police in Kota Samarahan have arrested a 43-year-old man on suspicion of possessing ketum water during a mid-morning operation in Kampung Binyu.
The arrest was carried out by the District Narcotics Criminal Investigation Division (BSJND) of the Kota Samarahan Police Headquarters at approximately 11.40 am on 9 June 2026.
During the inspection, officers discovered six bottles labelled “MS Spring” containing a cloudy green liquid believed to be ketum water.
The total volume seized was estimated at 9,000 millilitres, with a street value of around RM270. The suspect, a local labourer, was taken into custody at the scene.
Initial screening tests conducted by police confirmed that the man was not under the influence of other drugs.
However, he admitted that the bottles belonged to him and disclosed that he had been consuming ketum water since early 2026.
He further claimed that his supply was obtained from an individual known only as “Mie” through direct transactions.
Authorities have confirmed that the case is being investigated under Section 30(3) of the Poisons Act 1952.
Under this legislation, the processing, distribution, or sale of ketum water is prohibited. Convictions can result in fines of up to RM100,000, imprisonment for a maximum of five years, or both.
Ketum, derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, has long been a subject of legal and health debate in Malaysia.
While some communities have historically used it for medicinal purposes, its misuse has raised concerns among health professionals and law enforcement agencies.
The Ministry of Health has repeatedly warned that ketum water can lead to dependency and adverse health effects, prompting strict enforcement of existing laws.
The suspect is currently being held at the Kota Samarahan Police Station lockup to assist with further investigations.
Police have emphasised that this arrest forms part of ongoing efforts to curb the misuse of ketum and other controlled substances in Sarawak.
The Royal Malaysian Police have urged members of the public to avoid involvement in activities linked to ketum water, stressing that enforcement will continue to be carried out rigorously.
Authorities also reminded communities that cooperation is vital in tackling the spread of illegal substances and maintaining public safety.
This latest case highlights the continued vigilance of law enforcement in addressing narcotics-related offences in Sarawak.
It also reflects broader national efforts to strengthen awareness of the dangers associated with ketum misuse and to ensure compliance with the Poisons Act.
