Malaysian court fines e-cigarette retailer in Kuching for illegal promotion

Key points overview

Location: Kuching, Malaysia

Verdict Date: January 19, 2026

Fine: 20,000 Ringgit (approximately $4,921)

Allegation: On October 6, 2025, the promotion of smoking products was advertised in the store through posters with the slogan "BEST VALUE FOR MONEY.

Another case: Another specialty store company is charged with displaying e-cigarette products visible to the public, with a further hearing set for February 23, 2026.

Two firsts, January 20, 2026

According to Borneo Post, the Kuching High Court in Malaysia ruled on January 19, 2026, that a retail e-cigarette company was found to be in violation for openly promoting e-cigarette products in their Kuching business premises, and was fined 20,000 ringgit (approximately 4,921 US dollars). The company was represented in court by its business premises manager, who pleaded guilty to the charges.

Judge Ling Hui Chuan has made a ruling based on Section 9(1) of the Public Health (Control of Tobacco Products) Regulations 2024 (Regulation 852). According to this provision, individuals convicted under this regulation can face a maximum sentence of two years imprisonment, a fine ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 Ringgit (approximately $4,921 to $24,609 USD), or both.

According to the case, on October 6, 2025, the company promoted smoking products at its business premises in Kuching, Malaysia by posting posters with the slogan "BEST VALUE FOR MONEY.

During the plea stage, the company representative requested leniency, citing the fact that it was a first offense, and assuring the court that there would be no repeat offenses.

The prosecuting attorney, Mohd Fairos Ibrahim from the Health Department Prosecution and Legal Affairs Division in Kuching, Malaysia, requested a deterrent punishment and pointed out that Regulation 852 prohibits any company or individual from promoting smoking products (including tobacco alternatives) in stores or on social media, as such promotions may encourage the public to use and purchase smoking materials. He also emphasized that this offense is non-compoundable, and the punishment should be proportionate to the seriousness of the violation to serve as a warning to those involved in the tobacco industry.

Image source: Borneo Post