Total Vape Ban Will Fuel Black Market, Warns Criminologist
Datuk Dr. P. Sundramoorthy, a board member of the Asian Criminological Society, has warned that implementing a total vape ban in Malaysia could inadvertently strengthen organized smuggling syndicates and expand dangerous underground economies. This warning comes amid growing public concern over schoolchildren using highly hazardous, drug-laced vape products known locally as “mushroom,” “zombie,” and “kuah.”
Dr. Sundramoorthy argued that while the rise of stronger, unregulated substances among minors is a serious public health issue, prohibition is rarely the solution. Criminological research consistently shows that outright bans push markets underground, making products entirely untraceable and potentially far more toxic.
He pointed to Singapore’s strict ban as a cautionary tale. Despite aggressive enforcement by the city-state, large quantities of vape devices are regularly seized, and underground online distribution networks continue to thrive to meet persistent demand.
Rather than relying on a simplistic ban, the criminologist urged Malaysian authorities to adopt a pragmatic, evidence-based approach. He proposed a multi-pronged strategy to protect youth while keeping the market regulated:
- Intelligence-Led Enforcement: Intensifying crackdowns on suppliers targeting minors via online platforms and delivery services.
- Stricter Market Controls: Implementing tighter licensing, mandatory product testing, and heavier penalties for selling to minors.
- Early Preventive Education: Moving away from fear-based messaging to provide scientifically-grounded education on nicotine addiction and marketing manipulation in schools.
- Parental Responsibility: Encouraging parents to recognize how their own habits at home shape their children’s attitudes toward vaping.
Ultimately, Dr. Sundramoorthy emphasized that a balanced national strategy combining strong enforcement, effective regulation, digital monitoring, and long-term education is likely to be far more effective than relying solely on prohibition.
- Read more: Malaysia’s Online Vape Ban Drives Market into “Digital Speakeasies”
- Reference: Total vape ban may fuel black market, warns criminologist
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