Kuala lumpur: Data on vape seizures by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) up to April this year recorded 402 cases involving vape devices and liquids found to have been mixed with various types of dangerous synthetic drugs. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the evidence provides a strong basis for the government to move towards banning the use of vapes in the country.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the detection of synthetic drugs such as benzodiazepine, nimetazepam, MDMA, cannabinoids, tetrahydrocannabinol, and methamphetamine in vape preparations is clearly prohibited and illegal for use, particularly among minors or persons below the age of majority. Dr Dzulkefly emphasized that this evidence alone presents a compelling argument for a vape ban, a matter currently under government consideration with the Ministry of Health (MOH) also involved in the process.
He made these remarks at a press conference after launching the Cik Era Rides the MRT Programme at the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX) MRT Station. Earlier, on June 11, Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay noted the emergence of a new synthetic drug known as 'Piu Piu' in electronic cigarette liquids as a justification for the devices to be banned.
Elaborating further, Dzulkefly stated that the MOH views the proliferation of vape liquids containing dangerous synthetic drugs seriously and is committed to addressing the threat through a comprehensive approach. Enforcement efforts are being carried out through strategic cross-agency cooperation, including the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) and the PDRM.
Earlier, Dzulkefly launched the Cik Era Rides the MRT Programme, aimed at promoting public health to approximately 200,000 daily passengers on the MRT Putrajaya Line. The programme is a continuation of the Journey Home with Cik Era campaign initiated in March to introduce Cik Era AI, a virtual companion application designed to aid individuals in quitting smoking or vaping.
Since its launch on March 15, Cik Era AI has recorded 17,412 user interactions, averaging 258 interactions daily. The latest promotional initiative, under the mQuit Services Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), has increased daily interaction rates by 34 percent to 347 interactions per day as of June 15.
In addition to leveraging AI technology, the MOH has enhanced access to nicotine addiction treatment through the JomQuit platform, which collaborates with 90 registered private service providers and has assisted 9,349 clients since October 2024. Support initiatives like mQuit, JomQuit, and Cik Era AI complement the enforcement of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) in efforts to reduce the burden of chronic diseases and achieve a smoke-free generation in Malaysia.