Perak:<Text>

The Perak state government has mandated that electronic cigarette and vape traders must cease their operations by October this year, as the state moves to enforce a ban on the sale of these products. The decision comes as part of efforts to regulate the availability of vaping products within the state.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Human Resources, Health, Indian Community Affairs and National Integration Committee chairman Datuk A Sivanesan announced that a grace period has been provided to allow affected operators to transition smoothly towards the full enforcement of the ban. He highlighted that the leeway is being given as a transitional measure since some traders still hold valid sales licenses that have yet to expire.

The chairman further explained that during this grace period, traders are expected to clear their existing stock and gradually halt sales. This initiative follows the previous announcement on October 1 last year, whe re the state government declared its intention to ban the sale of electronic cigarettes and vapes at all business premises within local authority areas, with enforcement having commenced on January 1 this year.

Datuk A Sivanesan emphasized the importance of compliance, urging traders not to exploit the leniency by continuing illegal operations. He warned that legal action would be taken against any traders found violating the ban, underscoring that the measure is intended to protect public health and ensure community safety.