Malaysian Vape Group Urges Stricter Regulation, Not Bans

Malaysia Vape Regulation

The President of the Malaysian Organisation of Vape Entities (MOVE), Samsul Kamal Ariffin, is advocating for stricter regulation and enforcement of vape products rather than outright bans, arguing that prohibition is not the most effective solution to address public health concerns. He emphasized that many Malaysians use vaping as a less harmful alternative to quit smoking, citing international studies like those from Public Health England which suggest vaping is 95% safer than traditional cigarettes.

Samsul acknowledged the serious issue of vape misuse, particularly the mixing of illicit substances like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) into vape liquids, which poses significant health risks and can lead to hospitalization. However, he believes the core problem lies with irresponsible individuals, not the technology itself when used as intended by adult smokers. “I want to emphasize that regulation in terms of manufacturing, sales, and usage must be implemented by the government as soon as possible,” he stated.

He warned that a total ban on vape products would likely lead to a burgeoning black market, making untested and potentially unsafe products more accessible, thereby worsening public health outcomes. Furthermore, Samsul cautioned that state-level bans, such as those implemented or planned in Johor, Kelantan, Terengganu, Perlis, and Kedah, risk being undermined by the flow of products from states where sales remain legal, defeating the purpose of such prohibitions and potentially increasing demand for illicit cigarettes.

Instead of rushing into total bans, MOVE urges the government to focus on comprehensive regulation. “With proper regulation, only approved vape products can be sold, protecting users, legitimate traders, and the government, which would receive tax revenue to support health subsidies,” Samsul explained. This approach, he argues, would better address misuse while preserving a less harmful alternative for adult smokers. Currently, vape sales in Malaysia are governed under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024.

Matthew Ma
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