Current data suggests that teenage vapers in Sarawak are predominantly aged between 13 and 17.
KUCHING: There is a growing call for Sarawak to act with greater urgency in banning vaping and e-cigarettes, as a rising number of students and teenagers become addicted to these hazardous products.
Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Central Youth chairman Councillor Kevin Lau warned that young people are increasingly being targeted by promoters using sophisticated marketing tactics.
He stated a disturbing trend of stronger, addictive substances—including illicit drugs—being laced into e-cigarette liquids.
In a statement issued today, Lau urged the state government to fast-track the proposed ban on vaping devices and electronic cigarettes.
“We want to see the proposed government ban turned into reality as soon as possible.
“We take note that an increasing number of students and teenagers are getting hooked. Stronger addictive substances, such as drugs, are being laced into the liquids used in these devices nowadays, and the police have reported more frequent seizures of such substances,” he said.
Lau emphasised that the ban must be implemented swiftly, as enforcement will require significant time to take full effect.
He suggested that Sarawak could initiate a total ban immediately while awaiting the passage of federal legislation.
The call for action follows remarks made by the State Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, who previously confirmed that her ministry is formulating strict laws to halt the sale of vaping products in the state.
Fatimah had earlier stated that a total ban is deemed necessary to protect the Rakyat, particularly the youth.
“The ban will be enforced in stages. We will work with enforcement agencies and local council authorities to implement this across Sarawak in phases,” she reportedly said.
Current data suggests that teenage vapers in Sarawak are predominantly aged between 13 and 17.
Fatimah added that the ministry is consulting with the State Attorney-General, the State Secretary and the State Financial Officer to finalise a Cabinet paper on the matter.
“These devices have become serious threats to health,” Fatimah added, citing the widespread nature of the habit and the risk of drug-laced “puffs” as primary concerns.
The ministry is now expected to chart a clear and aggressive direction to tackle these rising woes, while community leaders like Lau maintain that the time for deliberation has passed and the focus must now shift to immediate enforcement.