Malaysia's Kedah State to Stop Renewing E-Cigarette Sales Licenses, Plans Full Ban by 2026

Main points:

1.The government of Kedah, Malaysia has announced that it will no longer renew licenses for the sale of e-cigarettes and vaping devices as part of efforts to curb drug abuse.

2.The ban on sales will be implemented through a natural expiration process to avoid potential legal risks.

3.Kedah state plans to completely ban the retail of e-cigarettes, including convenience stores, by 2026 at the latest.

4.Previously, Johor has announced a complete ban on the sale of e-cigarettes starting from August 1, 2025, with some states also simultaneously strengthening regulations.

According to Malay Mail on May 15, the government of Kedah, Malaysia has announced that they will no longer issue licenses for e-cigarettes and vaping products in the state as part of efforts to strengthen drug prevention measures. This decision was officially confirmed by the Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, following a meeting of the state's anti-drug committee.

According to Shanusi, some criminals are using e-cigarette devices to illegally consume synthetic drugs.

"These types of drugs can be inhaled through vaporizing devices and have become a new method of drug abuse. Limiting the sale of e-cigarettes is one of the ways we are combating the drug problem."

However, the state government has not yet announced an immediate full ban on sales, but instead plans to gradually implement a full ban after all current sales permits expire. This strategy is aimed at avoiding potential legal risks.

Shanusi pointed out, "We cannot hastily implement a blanket ban to avoid potential lawsuits due to loopholes in the law. Similar cases have already appeared in court before."

According to current arrangements, the Kedah state government is expecting to achieve a complete ban on the sale of e-cigarette products in all retail channels by 2026, once all licenses expire.

Shanusi further added that the state of Kedah will continue to promote anti-drug programs in each district, and strengthen cooperation with local officials, police chiefs, and the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK).

Previously, Johor had announced that it would ban the sale of all e-cigarette products starting from August 1, 2025. Other states in Malaysia, such as Melaka and Selangor, are also considering policies to restrict sales or tighten regulations.