1.4 International Crime Spurred by the Illegal Drug Trade
Malaysian Delegate
Illegal drug trade has become a major problem throughout Malaysia. The trading,
however, is not the biggest issue. Instead, bringing drugs into Malaysia and facing the strict
penalties is the issue. Drug traffickers bring in marijuana and heroin because it will fetch a much
higher price in Malaysia, about $465 for a kilo, due to the strict laws against illegal drugs.
The consequence for any sort of drug trafficking in Malaysia is the death penalty.
Possessing any amount of illegal drugs, from 4 grams to 400 grams, can results in 20 years in
prison to a life sentence. The strict laws in this country against drug trafficking are driving this
criminal activity underground, making the drug trade more secretive and dangerous. The crime
rate was expected to sky rocket with these laws. Traffickers would start using weapons to cross
the border and protect their drugs. However, the strict laws, heavy defense at Malaysia’s
borders and a strong police force halted drug trade and has reduced the crime rate by 39%.
Since Malaysia refuses to abolish the death penalty for any drug-related offenses, the
price of illegal drugs goes up, attracting traffickers to Malaysia. The secretive drug trade
continues under high consequences and in the past years, many Indonesians have been
arrested crossing the border carrying illegal drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine and heroin. Since
Malaysia is near the infamous “Golden Triangle” in China, a huge opium and heroin producer, it
makes sense that they are exposed to many illegal drugs.
While some countries and individuals call Malaysia’s strict laws on drug trade and
capital punishment severe and inhumane, the drug trade and crime rate in the country has
decreased. Malaysia is determined to eliminate drug trafficking, terrorism and violence related
to drugs. Their strict laws are helping them towards a drug-free country.