Kuala Lumpur: The Health Ministry (MOH) is intensifying enforcement and regulation of electronic cigarettes and vape products through the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852). Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that enforcement under the Act aims to protect minors from getting involved in the use of e-cigarettes or vape.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Dzulkefly emphasized that smoking and vape products are strictly regulated under Act 852 for the sake of public health. He mentioned this during the launch of the 2024 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS): Nutrition. Dr Dzulkefly also expressed his openness to reviewing laws related to smoking and vaping if necessary or supported by evidence, noting that laws are dynamic and responsive.

Act 852, which came into effect on October 1, 2024, was introduced to strengthen control over the sale, advertising, and promotion of all smoking products, including e-cigarettes and vape, in Malaysia. The Act specifically targets individuals under the age of 18, prohibiting them from selling, purchasing, or using any type of smoking product by any means.

In response to the Penang Consumers Association (CAP)’s call for MOH to ban vapes, Dr Dzulkefly said the matter falls under the jurisdiction of state governments and local authorities (PBT). On Tuesday, CAP reiterated its demand for a full ban on the sale of vape and e-cigarettes, citing growing social issues among students. This followed an incident on Monday involving a Form Three student at a school on the outskirts of Kangar, who was rushed to Hospital Tuanku Fauziah, Perlis, after allegedly suffering a seizure caused by vaping.