Malaysia’s Cabinet Agrees in Principle to Nationwide Vape Ban

Key Points

• Malaysia’s Health Ministry aims to finalise a vape ban policy by mid- or late 2026;
• The Cabinet has agreed in principle to move toward a nationwide ban;
• Regulatory and legislative processes are still required before implementation;
• Concerns include links between adulterated vape liquids and mental health conditions;
• The policy direction aligns with recommendations from medical associations.

2Firsts, December 16, 2025 – According to The Star, Malaysia is moving decisively toward a nationwide ban on vaping, with the Health Ministry aiming to finalise the policy by 2026.

Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said the Cabinet has already agreed in principle on the direction toward banning vape products, adding that the question is no longer whether vaping will be banned, but when.

He made the remarks after visiting Hospital Permai in Johor Baru. The minister said the Health Ministry is targeting implementation by mid-2026 or, at the latest, by the end of the year, subject to the completion of necessary regulatory and legislative processes.

Dzulkefly noted that the ministry had missed tabling the issue at a recent Cabinet meeting but expects it to be brought forward again early next year.

He cited growing concerns over the use of adulterated vape liquids and synthetic substances, which have been linked to drug-induced psychosis and other serious mental health conditions. Cases involving such conditions are being monitored by a special task group led by the ministry’s public health leadership in collaboration with medical experts.

The minister added that lifestyle factors, including substance abuse, are among the major contributors to mental health challenges, reinforcing the case for firm policy action.

Dzulkefly stressed that the move toward banning vape products is consistent with existing health policies and is aligned with recommendations from medical bodies, including the Malaysian Medical Association.

Image source: The Star