The National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) will not move forward if the director-general position is given to those who are about to retire or for other reasons, according to a source.

The source, who holds a senior position in the agency, questioned if the AADK was a “dumping ground” for those who are in the twilight of their careers.

The source was responding to federal police's internal security and public department director Zulkifli Abdullah (photo) being named as the new AADK director-general.

"Is there nobody within AADK who is qualified to head the agency?

“If we look at the track record (of the position) since 2008... these were people in their golden age,” said the source.

The source accused the Home Ministry and chief secretary to the government of sidelining the agency.

Each time there is a new director-general, the source said, there would be changes to the agency's policies and other functions.

"There has been no continuity of the previous policies, approaches, programmes, and visions in the prevention and rehabilitation of drug addicts.

"A new director-general who is assigned to the post because he is about to retire or due to punishment will not be committed,” added the source.

Furthermore, the source pointed out that a director-general who is brought in from outside would not have the expertise or experience to deal with matters such as psychology, counselling, psychosocial and pharmacology.

Therefore, the source appealed to the Home Ministry to reconsider its decision and choose a person who is qualified for the post.

"The chief secretary to the government must also be sensitive to this issue as it will affect the functions, responsibilities, vision, mission, and objectives of the agency as outlined in the National Anti-Drugs Agency Act 2004,” added the source.

The source also said such appointments affected the morale of AADK staff.

"We are worried the staff will be half-hearted in the execution of their duties as a form of silent protest,” added the source.

Previously, Malay Mail reported that the new appointment was done on Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's direct order.

Meanwhile, Zulkifli said he was surprised by his transfer but considered it an honour to lead the agency.