An 11-year-old boy was among those who tested positive for methamphetamine (syabu) during a drug screening in Alor Setar, Kedah, today.

According to Harian Metro Online, the Standard Five pupil was believed to have been hooked on drugs, as his parents were both addicts.

The shocking revelation was made following a joint operation by the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), National Welfare Department and several local clinics, at the couple's house in Kampung Kuala Sala, about 10am this morning.

Dr Zaki Yamani Abd Rashid, who is Kedah's AADK icon (anti-drug ambassador), said during the raid, the boy was at home when he was supposed to be sitting for an examination in school.

"The house was also in a sorry state, and their four children looked dishevelled.

"The 33-year-old mother just delivered a baby a month ago and we have received information that she used the baby boy, and another four-year-old child, to beg in front of a bank in Simpang Empat.

"I was made to understand that proceeds from the alms were used to buy drugs, as the 45-year father is jobless," he was quoted telling the portal.

The baby also looked weak, he added.

"We want to save the four children under the couple's care as the fifth child (the 11-year-old) has already started showing signs of drug usage.

"We worry about the children's wellbeing and have sent all of them to the Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital for a medical check-up," Zaki said.

According to him further, the family had even received help from the Welfare Department, in the form of minor repairs to the house and household items, but they had sold off the things to get money to buy drugs.