E-cigarette Industry in Malaysia Urges Enforcement of Public Health Law

Feb.08.2025

Malaysia urged to strengthen enforcement of Public Health Act 2024 for e-cigarettes instead of considering a total ban.

According to a recent report by The Sun, industry insiders in the e-cigarette sector have pointed out that the Malaysian Ministry of Health should focus on strengthening enforcement of the 2024 Public Health Smoking Act (Bill 852) rather than reconsidering the possibility of a complete ban.

Bill 852 regulates the sale, packaging, and use of tobacco products (including e-cigarettes). Ridhwan Rosli, Secretary General of the Malaysian Vape Chamber of Commerce (MVCC), stated that any sudden policy reversal would only exacerbate uncertainty. The e-cigarette industry has always supported responsible regulation and a comprehensive ban has been proven ineffective. Bans cannot eliminate demand, but only push products towards a harder-to-control black market.

Previously, reports indicated that the Ministry of Health is prepared to reconsider a complete ban on e-cigarettes if necessary. Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that the priority is to regulate and control the use of e-cigarettes, including through mandatory product registration.

Ross highlighted that the Bill 852 is being implemented in phases, stressing that all stakeholders, including industry participants, should be given enough time to fully adapt to these regulations. Ross explicitly stated that e-cigarette products are intended only for adult smokers who wish to quit. Instead of ineffective bans, it is more important to ensure through education that e-cigarettes are seen as a harm reduction tool rather than a gateway for non-smokers.

References:

[1] Well-regulated policy needed for vape industry to grow responsibly, say industry players

Also Read:

[1] Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Busts a Vape Smuggling Gang Bribing Customs $45,000 Monthly

[2] Malaysia to Refine Vape Regulations for Nationwide Standard

[3] Malaysia to Implement Gradual Approach to Vape Regulation, Says Health Minister

[4] Malaysia Health Ministry Defends Vape Regulations Over Total Ban

[5] Malaysia's Health Minister: No Need to Follow Foreign E-Cig Bans, Focus on Enforcing New Smoking Control Act

[6] Malaysian Vape Industry Advocacy Responds to 2Firsts: "Cassette-Style" E-cigs May Be Banned, Tobacco Products Prohibited from Public Display

[7] Call for Strict Enforcement of Tobacco Control Law in Malaysia

#Legislation #Asia #Open system e-cigarettes #Malaysia

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