A Malaysian non-governmental organisation has raised alarm over the alleged widespread availability of “mushroom-flavoured” vape products believed to contain dangerous psychoactive substances, warning that even children as young as 10 have been exposed to them.
Al-Sirath Malaysia said enforcement gaps have allowed synthetic drugs to spread through both physical retail outlets and online platforms, calling for stronger action to protect younger generations from emerging drug threats.
Its president, Redzhuan Yusof, claimed the youngest users identified through the organisation’s cases were around 10 to 11 years old, adding that such products are being sold at varying prices depending on quantity and content.
He said earlier vape liquids were reportedly sold cheaply in small amounts, while full bottles could cost significantly more, ranging from tens to hundreds of ringgit.
Concerns have intensified following a recent case involving a teenage girl who allegedly harmed herself while under the influence of a “mushroom-flavoured” vape product.
Authorities in Melaka are currently investigating the incident, including efforts to trace the source of the substance allegedly supplied by the victim’s boyfriend.
Separately, the Malaysian Substance Abuse Council warned that new psychoactive substances in vape liquids pose a growing public health threat, particularly among teenagers due to their low cost and easy concealment.
The council’s president, Ahmad Lutfi Abdul Latiff, said these synthetic substances are difficult to detect using standard screening methods and may cause severe psychological effects, including hallucinations, paranoia and acute psychosis.
He also urged tighter enforcement, enhanced cyber monitoring, and urgent legal amendments to address rapidly evolving chemical compounds being distributed through online platforms.
