KUALA LUMPUR – The government is exploring the possibility of imposing a nationwide ban on the sale and use of e-cigarettes and vaping products, according to Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
Speaking at a press conference, Dr Dzulkefly revealed that the Health Ministry had set up a special committee tasked with preparing a proposal for such a ban, in response to concerns over the increasing misuse of electronic cigarettes, local media reported.
“The proposal will be brought forward by the Ministry to advocate for a complete ban on vapes,” he was quoted as saying, adding that the proposal is still in the works.
The Health Minister also clarified that the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) currently does not include provisions to ban vaping products, although it governs their use.
“This Act does not cover vaping restrictions, and I hope this clears up any confusion,” he said.
However, he acknowledged that the potential ban requires careful deliberation, considering legal, economic, and regulatory perspectives, as well as potential impacts on government revenue and licensing procedures.
On July 22, a meeting was held by the committee to further discuss these matters. Dr Dzulkefly indicated that the Health Ministry would be engaging in discussions with multiple government bodies, including the Finance Ministry, the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, and the Attorney-General’s Chambers.
The Minister also expressed support for the decisions made by six state governments—Johor, Kelantan, Terengganu, Perlis, Kedah, and Pahang—to halt the issuance and renewal of vape sales licences. He noted that these actions align with public health objectives and local government powers but clarified that the ruling is limited, not applying to all premises, such as grocery stores.
In the meantime, Dr Dzulkefly outlined the ongoing enforcement of Act 852, which addresses the registration of smoking and vaping products, as well as restrictions on sales to minors.
As of June 30, the Health Ministry has carried out 15,775 operations, issued 78,424 notices, and opened 524 investigation files. Before Act 852 was enforced on October 1 of the previous year, there were over 3,200 vape brands with 6,800 variants. Now, only 390 brands and 2,794 variants are registered.
The Ministry has also issued 2,619 notices to underage smokers and 27 notices to minors who purchased tobacco or vaping products.
Additionally, Dr Dzulkefly reported that 36,780 secondary school students have participated in a smoking cessation programme, with 230 primary and 44,211 secondary school students identified for intervention. He highlighted the availability of 111 one-stop addiction centres (OSCA) and 857 smoking cessation clinics across the country. - July 28, 2025
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