Indonesia combats rising drug prevalence with major ketamine seizure

Authorities in Batam, Riau Islands, have destroyed 1.3 tons of ketamine, a seizure officials claim could have potentially affected 6.5 million people. Muhammad Qodari, Head of the Government Communication Agency (Bakom), emphasized that the strategic geographic location of Batam as an international trade route necessitates strengthened surveillance and cross-agency collaboration to prevent it from being used as a narcotics transit point.

This seizure coincides with data showing a rise in drug use within the country. According to the 2025 National Prevalence Survey conducted by the National Narcotics Board (BNN), BPS, and BRIN, the prevalence of drug abuse increased from 1.73% in 2023 to 2.11% in 2025. This figure represents approximately 4.15 million residents aged 15-64. Experts from Universitas Pancasila have called for a multi-sectoral approach that combines law enforcement with psychological support, education, and rehabilitation to address both prevention and the mental health needs of those in recovery.