Malaysia Targets Phased Nationwide Vape Ban by Mid-2026
The Malaysian government is planning a phased nationwide ban on all vaping products, aiming to begin implementation as early as mid-2026, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad has announced. “The question is no longer if we ban vaping, but when,” he stated at a press conference.
The Ministry of Health has briefed the Cabinet on the proposal and is preparing a formal memorandum for final approval. Dr. Dzulkefly confirmed the ban will be implemented in stages, starting with the prohibition of open-system vape products before extending to a complete ban on all types of vapes. While hopeful for a mid-2026 start, he noted the final timeline will be decided by the Cabinet.
He emphasized that the ban will be supported by behavioral insights (BI) to “nudge” users towards quitting, as “law has its limits.” Expert committees are also considering methods to help current users transition away from vaping before legal restrictions take effect. This move represents a significant step in the country’s public health strategy to combat nicotine addiction.
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