Malaysian Group Urges Sarawak to Tighten Vape Law Enforcement to Curb Underage Use

Key points:

·TRADA calls for enforcement: The Malaysian Tobacco Control Transformation Organization (TRADA) urges authorities to strictly enforce the "Tobacco Products Control Act 2024", with a focus on cracking down on illegal online e-cigarette sales. 

·Data shows: A 2022 survey revealed that Sarawak has the highest rate of underage e-cigarette use in the country. 

·Policy stance: TRADA opposes state-level bans on e-cigarette sales and recommends a comprehensive approach combining enforcement and education. 

·Willingness to cooperate: TRADA has expressed willingness to collaborate with the government to protect youth health and calls for stronger enforcement coordination between federal and state authorities.

【2Firsts News Flash】According to a report by Media Pujukan Massa on July 11th, the Malaysian Transformative Organization TRADA is urging relevant authorities to actively enforce the strict implementation of the Tobacco Product Control Act 2024 (Act 852) to curb the increasing trend of underage youths in Sarawak using e-cigarettes.

TRADA President Joseph Janting has pointed out that according to the 2022 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS), Sarawak, Malaysia has the highest rate of underage e-cigarette use in the country, raising serious concerns about the long-term health effects on the younger generation. During the NHMS survey, the e-cigarette industry lacked relevant legal regulations. However, as of October 1, 2024, Act 852 will officially come into effect.

Jia Ting said in a statement:

"The difference today is that we now have Bill 852, which must be fully utilized through strict and consistent enforcement of the law."

He stated that TRADA pays close attention to illegal e-cigarette products containing prohibited ingredients being sold on social media and e-commerce platforms, especially those targeting young consumers.

He added that the blatant sale of these disguised scented e-cigarette products urgently requires comprehensive and targeted enforcement actions, rather than just a general ban.

"We fully support the Department of Women, Children, and Community Welfare in their commitment to seeking effective solutions and protecting minors from the threat of e-cigarette products."

Jiating said.

TRADA emphasizes the need to take strict measures against businesses that knowingly sell e-cigarettes to minors in violation of the law.

"Although legal businesses must comply with multiple licenses, registrations, and compliance requirements, unregulated illegal sellers are the real threat and must be punished severely."

He explained.

Jia Ting opposes the proposal to implement a statewide ban on e-cigarette sales, arguing that this is not the real solution to addressing the issue.

The prohibition of legal sales will not stop this issue, but instead unregulated online platforms are causing a flood of illegal products that are difficult to monitor.

He insists that the best approach is to comprehensively and smartly implement the law 852 in order to truly protect the next generation.

TRADA also expressed willingness to work with the federal and state governments to protect the youth of Sarawak from the harms associated with e-cigarettes.

"We are willing to support all initiatives and policies aimed at protecting minors, while ensuring fair and effective enforcement of the law."

He added.

He also called for close cooperation between federal and state agencies to ensure coordinated law enforcement actions for maximum impact.

"The issue of e-cigarettes not only concerns public health, but if not addressed immediately through existing laws, it will also pose a challenge to social security. Our younger generation needs to be protected from this negative impact. We must take immediate action to prevent the situation from worsening."

Jia emphasized.

Jia Ting also hopes that law enforcement will consider educating and raising awareness among teenagers, parents, and the community to deepen their understanding of the risks of e-cigarettes.

"This is not only a legal issue, but also a social and educational problem that requires a comprehensive and holistic solution."