Indonesia: “We Ban the Drug, Not the Vape” in Contrast to Singapore

Indonesia’s National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has stated it will not follow Singapore’s hardline approach of banning vapes and treating their use as a narcotics-level offense. Instead, the BNN will focus on tightening supervision of vape liquids to prevent them from containing dangerous and illicit substances.

“In Singapore, they are banning it. Here, we are not banning the vape itself, but we must control the liquids that have drug content,” BNN Head Marthinus Hukom told Tempo on Thursday, August 21, 2025. “So, what is banned is the drug, not the vape or electronic cigarette.”

Hukom noted that the shift from traditional cigarettes to vaping has created new methods for drug abuse. He cited a recent BNN seizure of approximately 1,800 vape units containing etomidate and ketamine, substances classified as anesthetics and psychotropics. He explained that the BNN is now collaborating with Customs, online marketplaces, and vape shops to strengthen supervision without disrupting legitimate e-cigarette businesses.

• Read more: Indonesia’s BPOM Expands Supervision to E-Cigarettes

This approach contrasts sharply with Singapore, where Prime Minister Lawrence Wong recently announced that vaping will be treated as a drug issue with much stronger penalties, including potential imprisonment. Wong’s announcement came after authorities found many seized vapes contained etomidate. He stated that while vapes are an “instrument of delivery,” the “real danger is in what they contain.” Singapore, which has banned vapes since 2018, is also preparing a major anti-vaping campaign for schools.

• News source: BNN Tak Ikuti Singapura: yang Dilarang Narkobanya, Bukan Vape

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.

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