Malaysia cracks down on e-cigarette products containing illicit substances

Feb.24

Over 100 cases of e-cigarette products suspected of containing drugs were investigated in Malaysia in the past two years.

According to a report from NST on February 23rd, Malaysia has initiated over 100 investigations over the past two years into e-cigarette products allegedly containing illicit substances.

Malaysia's Deputy Health Minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni announced that with the passing of the "2024 Public Health Tobacco Control Act" (Act 852), all products related to cigarettes and e-cigarettes must be registered and labeled.

According to records, we launched 32 investigations in 2023, which increased to 90 in 2024. These investigations primarily targeted drugs and products containing substances related to drugs.

Last week, a state legislator called for action to curb adolescent addiction to "magic mushroom" e-cigarette products (related reading: Malaysia's e-cigarette sales go underground: online sales still rampant, brand searches are key). However, a deputy minister stated that no hallucinogenic compound psilocybin was found in the tested samples of "magic mushroom.

He added that they are strengthening law enforcement cooperation with relevant departments, including the police. Due to the increasingly complex sales methods, they are also monitoring on social media platforms.

References:

[1] Over 100 cases of drug-laced vapes under probe, says deputy minister

Also Read:

[1] Regulating E-cigarette Sales: The Importance of Control and Support

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

[3] Malaysia Health Ministry Prepares to Reconsider Full E-Cigarette Ban

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