The federal government is set to fully ban the sale of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and vape products as part of efforts to curb their misuse.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the ban will be implemented in phases, starting with open-system vapes before expanding to cover all types of vape products. However, he did not provide a specific timeline for the full nationwide ban.
As an initial step, the Ministry of Health (KKM) has held detailed discussions with key ministries and departments, including the Ministry of Finance, Royal Malaysian Customs Department, Ministry of Domestic Trade, Ministry of Home Affairs via the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, Malaysian Investment Development Authority, and the Legal Advisor’s Office.
“The findings and proposed implementation plan for this ban will be presented to the Cabinet for policy approval, which will then form the basis for a nationwide prohibition on e-cigarettes and vape products,” he said in a written reply to Senator Baharuddin Ahmad in the Dewan Negara.
Dr Dzulkefly added that the move aligns with state-level actions taken by six states—Johor, Kelantan, Terengganu, Perlis, Kedah, and Pahang—which have chosen not to issue or renew vape-selling licenses through their local authorities.
“This proactive approach supports the national public health agenda,” he said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to protecting Malaysians from harmful diseases linked to vaping.
