According to a report by Malaymail on August 8, the Malaysian Vape Association (MVA) has expressed concerns about the potential impact of the upcoming Public Health Tobacco Control Act 2024 (Bill 852) on the e-cigarette community.
The organization stated in a statement today that overly strict regulations may cause former smokers who have switched to e-cigarettes to return to smoking traditional cigarettes.
A survey conducted by the MVA revealed that 73.7% of e-cigarette users were previously cigarette smokers.
The organization warned that treating e-cigarette products the same as traditional cigarettes (such as banning the display of e-cigarette products), could weaken public health efforts to reduce smoking rates.
Khairil Azizi Khairuddin, President of the Malaysian Vaporizers Association (MVA), emphasized the importance of distinguishing between e-cigarettes and traditional smoking in new legislation.
Strict regulations that fail to differentiate between e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes, such as banning the display of e-cigarette products, could potentially cause many successful e-cigarette users to revert back to traditional tobacco. This shift not only poses a threat to their health, but also risks reversing the national progress Malaysia has made in reducing smoking rates.
We urge the government to adopt a balanced approach, recognize the harm reduction potential of e-cigarettes, and provide a supportive environment for e-cigarette users to keep them away from traditional tobacco.
The organization also pointed out that 80.1% of e-cigarette users are using e-cigarettes as a way to quit smoking.
The Malaysian Vape Association (MVA) has called on the Ministry of Health (MOH) to ensure that the final version of Bill 852 includes reasonable regulations that support harm reduction and do not equate e-cigarette products with conventional cigarettes. We believe that informed and balanced regulations can protect public health while ensuring that e-cigarette users do not revert back to smoking.
MVA stated that the organization will continue to advocate for the rights of e-cigarette users and engage in ongoing communication with stakeholders regarding this issue.
Notice
1. This article is provided exclusively for professional research purposes related to industry, technology and policy. Any reference to brands or products is made solely for the purpose of objective description and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or promotion of any brand or product.
2. The use of nicotine products, including but not limited to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products, is associated with significant health risks. Users are required to comply with all relevant laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.
3. This article is strictly restricted from being accessed or viewed by individuals under the legal age.
Copyright
This article is either an original work by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with the original source clearly indicated. The copyright and usage rights of this article belong to 2Firsts or the original source. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other unauthorized use of this article by any entity or individual is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally responsible. For copyright-related matters, please contact: info@2firsts.com
AI Assistance Disclaimer
This article may have utilized AI to enhance translation and editing efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, errors may occur. Readers are advised to refer to the sources provided for more accurate information.
This article should not be used as a basis for any investment decisions or advice, and 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any errors in the content.
