Malaysian Groups Urge Joint Crackdown on Online Vape Sales

Anti-tobacco advocates and even vape industry groups in Malaysia are calling for a well-coordinated, multi-agency effort to effectively crack down on the open online sale of vapes and e-liquids. This unified demand comes as these products continue to be easily accessible online, despite prohibitions under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act (Act 852).

Dr. M. Murallitharan, president of the Malaysian Council for Tobacco Control, stated that tackling the issue cannot rest solely with the Health Ministry. He urged the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and other authorities to take a “strong policing stance,” warning that without strict enforcement, Act 852 would remain “just for optics.” NV Subbarow of the Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) echoed this, questioning why MCMC can act swiftly against provocative online statements but not against online vape sellers.

Interestingly, vape industry groups also support the ban on online sales due to the risk of underage access. Samsul Kamal Arrifin, president of the Malaysian Organisation of Vape Entities (MOVE), said, “We are completely against this (online sales) as it makes the product accessible to minors. These websites don’t have any age verification.” He urged MCMC to block these websites and called for sales to be restricted to specialized vape shops with trained staff, rather than general convenience stores. Zain Azrul, secretary of the Malaysia E-Vaporisers and Tobacco Alternative Association, agreed, stating all sales should occur in licensed physical shops with proper in-person age verification to protect public health and the integrity of licensed businesses.

• Read more: Malaysia Debates Vape Tax vs. Total Ban
• News source: Groups call for joint crack down on online vape sales

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Matthew Ma

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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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