Malaysia’s Online Vape Ban Drives Market into “Digital Speakeasies”

Malaysian authorities are struggling to contain a rapidly growing underground digital vape market following the implementation of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act (Act 852). This legislative crackdown has inadvertently transformed the online trade into exclusive, invite-only networks operating entirely out of regulators’ reach.

While public e-commerce platforms like Shopee and Lazada have successfully scrubbed vape listings, the illicit trade has adapted. To buy a vape online today, a credit card is no longer enough; buyers must navigate closed-loop networks where administrators verify referrers before granting access to unapproved products.

Cybersecurity experts warn that traditional enforcement methods, such as blocking websites, are virtually useless against this new wave of digital black markets.

Fong Choong Fook, CEO of cybersecurity firm LGMS, noted that sellers have moved past conventional websites. “They operate over forums, chat groups, and Telegram groups,” Fong explained, adding that taking action on encrypted platforms requires lengthy, cross-border cooperation with social media providers.

Tracking the financial trail of these illicit transactions also presents a significant challenge for law enforcement:

• Mule Accounts: Payments made via e-wallets or direct bank transfers frequently lead investigators to financial “mules” rather than the actual syndicates.
• Payment Fragmentation: Transactions are often highly fragmented across multiple digital wallets and intermediaries, diluting the investigative trail.
• Jurisdictional Delays: Obtaining metadata and platform cooperation involves complex legal processes that slow down active investigations.

Despite these hurdles, Dr. M. Selvakumar, director of the Universiti Sains Malaysia Cybersecurity Research Centre, insists that enforcement is difficult but not impossible. He emphasizes that combining public complaints, undercover operations, device seizures, and anti-money-laundering controls can still help authorities piece together actionable intelligence.

To curb the underground boom, cybersecurity specialists are calling for stiffer penalties for online sales to minors and the introduction of transparent public reporting mechanisms, including financial rewards for tip-offs.

• Reference: Vape business in Malaysia thrives underground after online ban

• Author
• Recent Posts

Follow

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.

Follow

Latest posts by Matthew Ma (see all)

• South Korea Escalates Tobacco Warnings with Blunt, Fatalistic Labels - June 22, 2026
• Magnolia Commissioner Proposes Ordinance to Ban Vape Shops - June 22, 2026
• Belarus Moves to Ban Vape and E-Cigarette Advertising Under New Bill - June 22, 2026

Related posts:

Dutch Vape Flavor Ban Fuels Black Market and Doubles Youth Vaping India Rejects Philip Morris, Keeps E-Cigarette & Heated Tobacco Ban Poland Disposable Vape Ban Debate: Concerns Raised New York Voters Reject Proposed 75% Nicotine Pouch Tax Alabama to Ban Indoor Vaping by Classifying it as Smoking Denver Flavored Tobacco & Vape Ban Faces Voter Repeal