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SELANGOR has directed all local authorities (PBTs) to immediately seize and remove all physical advertisements related to electronic cigarettes or vape products, as part of an intensified effort to address the public health risks associated with vaping.
State Executive Councillor for Public Health and Environment, Jamaliah Jamaluddin, said the directive was agreed upon during a coordination meeting on 16 May, which she chaired, to discuss the possible prohibition of e-cigarette sales in the state.
“This action is in line with the provisions of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2023 (Act 852), which clearly prohibits any form of advertising, promotion and sponsorship related to electronic smoking products,” she said in a statement issued today.
The meeting also examined several issues concerning the use and sale of vape products, including enforcement challenges, licensing, legal frameworks and monitoring mechanisms.
“The issue of online sales was also discussed, as it remains difficult to control and often serves as a primary access point for teenagers to obtain such products,” Jamaliah said.
She highlighted the urgent need for proactive state-level measures, citing the 2022 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS), which estimated that nearly 14.9 per cent of Malaysian male adolescents aged 13 to 17 were e-cigarette users.
In response, she said the state government, through the Standing Committee on Public Health, would hold further discussions to evaluate potential policy options before tabling a final proposal for decision by the State Executive Council.
Jamaliah stressed that any new policies must prioritise public health outcomes and the wellbeing of future generations.
“The state government strongly welcomes the active role of parents, educational institutions, civil society, and relevant agencies at both state and federal levels to ensure that any actions taken are truly effective and sustainable,” she added. - May 20, 2025