THE National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) has called on other local airlines to introduce mandatory drug screening for their pilots, following Malaysia Aviation Group’s (MAG) move to test all Malaysia Airlines pilots.
AADK director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh said MAG’s decision was a responsible step towards strengthening safety measures, particularly after one of its employees was recently detained in Indonesia in connection with an alleged drug-related offence.
He said AADK was ready to assist MAG and other aviation companies by providing expertise in drug prevention, screening procedures and workplace safety programmes.
Ruslin stressed that there should be no compromise when it comes to drug-related risks involving aviation personnel, given their role in safeguarding the lives of thousands of passengers.
“If we have placed emphasis on tackling drug abuse among drivers in the transport sector, there is no reason why similar attention should not be given to pilots,” he said after launching the Kampung Angkat Madani programme at Sekolah Kebangsaan Felda Tenang today.
He said AADK would encourage MAG to join its Drug-Free Workplace Programme (TEKAD), which aims to create a safer working environment free from the threat of substance abuse.
Ruslin added that the agency was also prepared to provide risk management training, competency assessments and guidance to ensure MAG personnel involved in screening activities were properly trained.
The move follows MAG’s announcement that all Malaysia Airlines pilots would undergo mandatory urine tests to strengthen safety protocols and ensure crew members remain fit to operate flights. – August 8, 2026