The Health Ministry is considering a total ban on the sale and use of vape and electronic cigarettes but emphasizes that the decision requires careful planning and coordination with relevant agencies. During a session at the Dewan Rakyat, Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad explained that several factors, including legal issues, enforcement challenges, and public health impacts, need thorough evaluation before any action is taken.
A special committee on e-cigarettes, led by senior health officials Ismuni Bohari and Lokman Hakim Sulaiman, met on July 22 to discuss potential stronger regulations, including the possibility of a full ban on vaping products. The committee also recommended further studies to assess the legal, industrial, government revenue, and licensing implications if such a ban were implemented.
The ministry plans to consult with the Attorney-General’s Chambers and other government departments to refine the policy approach. For now, the focus remains on enforcing strict regulations under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024.
At a press conference, Dzulkefly stressed that any move toward a ban would be based on the committee’s evidence-based recommendations. “They will propose recommendations grounded in data, legal frameworks, and enforcement considerations. If a ban is pursued, it will follow their guidance,” he said.
