According to a report by Malaysian media SCMP on January 27th, several e-cigarette smugglers were arrested at major airports in Malaysia after bribing customs officials. This incident has drawn public attention to what medical experts are calling a health crisis, which is escalating due to the increasing consumption of nicotine-containing substances (including e-cigarettes containing banned drugs).
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) stated on January 24 that the criminal syndicate was paying customs officials at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) up to $45,000 per month to turn a blind eye to unregulated e-cigarettes worth millions of dollars.
MACC Chairman Azam Baki stated that authorities have seized e-cigarettes and related items worth over RM17.9 million (USD 4 million), and added that the criminal group involved has been operating since 2023.
Azam said in an interview with reporters, "Our investigation has just begun, and we are currently verifying other suspects and individuals involved in smuggling activities.
After a lure operation lasting over three months, authorities have apprehended a total of 14 suspects.
In Malaysia, with the exception of Johor (which has implemented a ban since 2018) and Terengganu, the consumption and sale of e-cigarette products is legal in most states under strict regulation. In 2023, the Malaysian government will remove liquid or gel nicotine from the 1952 Poisons Act, creating a loophole that allows minors to purchase e-cigarette products unrestricted.
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