CAPHRA Urges Malaysia: Reject Vape Bans, Use Regulation

Kelantan Vape Ban Malaysia

Advocates Criticize WHO, Cite Risks of Illicit Markets

The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) is urging Malaysian authorities to reject calls for vape bans and instead implement risk-proportionate regulations under the new Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852). CAPHRA argues that outright bans are counterproductive and risk fueling illicit markets, similar to experiences in Bhutan and South Africa.

The group criticizes the World Health Organization (WHO) for neglecting harm reduction strategies, which they believe contributes to preventable smoking deaths. They contrast WHO projections of rising Malaysian smoking rates with Sweden’s success in achieving below 5% smoking prevalence through harm reduction, including vaping and nicotine pouches.

Echoing this, Professor Dr. Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh stated, “Enforcing stricter controls on high-risk products over safer alternatives is better than outright bans.” Samsul Arrifin Kamal of MOVE Malaysia added, “The solution lies in implementing stricter controls… By establishing clear guidelines… we can ensure consumer safety,” warning that bans could lead to black market proliferation.

CAPHRA advocates for regulations that differentiate between combustible cigarettes and less harmful alternatives like vaping, allowing adult smokers access to cessation tools while protecting youth.

Matthew Ma
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