Advocates Criticize WHO, Cite Risks of Illicit Markets
The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) is urging Malaysian authorities to reject calls for vape bans and instead implement risk-proportionate regulations under the new Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852). CAPHRA argues that outright bans are counterproductive and risk fueling illicit markets, similar to experiences in Bhutan and South Africa.
Read moreGroup Argues Grace Period Too Short, Questions State Authority
Vape traders in Terengganu are urging the state government to postpone the impending ban on the sale of e-cigarettes and vape products, scheduled to take effect on August 1st. Represented by the Terengganu branch of the Malay Vape Traders Association, they argue the ban will cause significant financial hardship and that the provided three-month grace period is inadequate.
Read moreKedah may soon join other Malaysian states in prohibiting the sale of electronic cigarettes (vapes). Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor expressed his intention to emulate Terengganu’s recent decision and plans to propose the ban at the next state executive council meeting.
Read moreChief Minister Responds to Police Concerns Over Drug Abuse Links
The Penang state government is open to considering a ban on the sale of e-cigarettes and vape products, according to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. However, he clarified that no formal discussions or decisions have yet been made regarding such a prohibition.
Read moreMove Follows Johor & Kelantan Bans; Selangor Considers Similar Action
The Malaysian state of Terengganu will enforce a complete ban on the sale of vape products effective August 1, 2025, joining other states in taking a hard stance against e-cigarettes. The decision, aimed at curbing negative health impacts, particularly among youth, was confirmed by State Committee Chairman Datuk Wan Sukairi Wan Abdullah.
Read moreState Never Issued Vape Licenses, Ban Effective Since 2016
The Kelantan state government in Malaysia continues to enforce a strict ban on the sale of vape products, a policy that has been in effect since January 1, 2016. Recent statements from state officials confirm this long-standing position and highlight ongoing enforcement efforts.
Read morePublic health experts in Malaysia are arguing for stricter, risk-proportionate controls on vape products rather than pursuing an outright ban, suggesting a more nuanced approach is needed to address the complexities of vaping.
Read moreThe Selangor state government in Malaysia is set to hold a comprehensive meeting to review the possibility of banning the sale of electronic cigarettes (vapes) within the state. This follows a recommendation from the Deputy Inspector-General of Police and recent moves by other Malaysian states.
Read moreAccording to Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, state governments in Malaysia have the authority to ban the sale of vape or e-cigarettes through local councils. He explained that states are empowered by local regulations to control the sale of such devices within their jurisdictions.
Read moreThe Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) has begun issuing non-compliance notifications and warning letters to premises found violating the Ban on Display of Tobacco Products at their Point of Sale counters. The move comes as part of a phased enforcement approach that will continue until October 1, 2024.
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