When debating the motion of thanks on the Royal Address, the Pasir Puteh MP said caning would teach drug addicts to kick the habit, The Star reported today.

“What are drug addicts afraid of most? Pain.

“I propose that laws be introduced to cane drug addicts as it will put fear into them to stop taking drugs,” Nik Mazian was quoted as saying.

According to The Star report, Nik Mazian said caning was the best way to deter drug addiction, adding that mothers in villages were too soft on their children and did not have the heart to cane them when they were on drugs.

He also said drug addiction was a serious problem among the youth, the report added.

On Wednesday, the PAS lawmaker sparked controversy when he said those caught for illicit sex should be given up to 100 lashes of the cane.

He said caning would protect “innocent” babies born out of wedlock.

His wish will come into effect should Parliament pass the proposed amendments to the Shariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965, also known as Act 355.