George Town:The Penang government is urging the federal government to expedite the implementation of a nationwide ban on electronic cigarettes and vapes to safeguard the younger generation from nicotine addiction.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, the chairman of the State Youth, Sports and Health Committee, praised the federal government's recent decision not to appeal a court ruling regarding the exemption of liquid nicotine from the Poisons List. He regarded it as a positive step towards a comprehensive ban on vaping products in Malaysia.
Gooi articulated his hope for swift progress in establishing the ban nationwide, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts. He made these remarks during a press conference following his keynote speech at the opening of the 10th Asia-Pacific Smoke-Free Meeting.
On May 15, a ruling by the Kuala Lumpur High Court deemed the government's 2023 exemption of nicotine liquids and gels from the Poisons List unlawful due to inadequate consultation with the Poisons Board. The government withdrew its appeal against this ruling on August 18. Gooi reiterated Penang's commitment to enforcing existing regulations under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 while awaiting further federal guidance.
Gooi also expressed concern over the tobacco industry's marketing strategies, which include using attractive packaging and social media influencers to appeal to young people, most of whom are not previous smokers.
In the same meeting, Dr. Ulysses Dorotheo, executive director of the Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (SEATCA), noted that eight out of 11 ASEAN countries have already implemented e-cigarette bans. He highlighted that Malaysia's potential ban would make it the ninth country to do so.
SEATCA board chairman Dr. Somsak Chunharas emphasized the crucial role of local authorities and civil organizations in combating social media's influence on promoting vaping among the youth. He advocated for community advocacy and education to shift public perceptions and reduce the use of nicotine products among young people.
The two-day meeting, titled 'Sustaining the Smoke-free Legacy Against the New Tide of Nicotine,' brings together 180 delegates from 13 countries. The participants aim to enhance regional cooperation, share effective smoke-free policy practices, and tackle emerging public health challenges related to nicotine products. George Town, recognized for its smoke-free initiatives, will host a study tour for delegates as part of the event.