Entries by Matthew Ma

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Russians Advised of Fines for Smoking on Shared Balconies

Smoking on shared apartment building balconies in Russia can result in fines ranging from 500 to 1,500 rubles, according to Sergey Kolunov, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Construction, Housing and Communal Services. He emphasized that the ban on smoking in common areas of residential buildings, such as elevators and stairwells, also extends […]

Malaysia Perlis to Ban Vape Sales Effective August 1st

The Malaysian state of Perlis will prohibit the sale of vapes, or electronic cigarettes, starting August 1st. Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) Mohd. Shukri Ramli announced the decision, citing a 2022 ruling by the Perlis State Fatwa Committee which declared vape use haram (forbidden).

Selangor to Decide on Vape Sales Ban After State Council Review

The Selangor state government will make a decision regarding a potential ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes (vapes) after the State Executive Council (MMKN) reviews a dedicated working paper on the matter. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari confirmed he has instructed Public Health and Environment Executive Councilor Jamaliah Jamaludin to prepare this paper.

Malaysian Vape Bans Could Fuel Risky Black Market: MVCC Warns

Industry groups in Malaysia argue vape bans fuel illicit trade and harm consumers, advocating for regulation over prohibition. The Malaysian Vape Chamber of Commerce (MVCC) has issued a strong caution to policymakers. The group warns that implementing outright bans on vape sales will likely drive consumers towards a dangerous black market. They advocate for a […]

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Namibia Imports N$1.4 Billion of Vapes and Hookah Products

Analysis of Namibia’s surging N$1.4B vape & hookah imports, insights for industry, and upcoming regulatory changes impacting the market. Namibia has experienced a dramatic surge in the importation of water pipe tobacco (hookah), vapes, and related mixtures. Between 2021 and 2024, the country imported over N$1.4 billion worth of these products. This figure marks a […]

CAPHRA Slams Vaping Misinformation, Highlights Deadly Risks

CAPHRA exposes how anti-vaping propaganda endangers public health, urging a shift to evidence-based harm reduction strategies. The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) issued a stark warning. The organization stated that widespread misinformation about safer nicotine products, such as vapes, directly endangers millions of lives. This misinformation also severely undermines global public […]