Malaysia’s Ministry of Health (MOH) aims to ban the sale of e-cigarettes and vaping products by mid-2026, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
He noted that the ministry remains committed to outlawing these products but will implement the ban in stages. “We hope to enforce it by mid-2026, if not, then in the second half of next year. Many factors need to be considered, but the MOH is determined to prohibit the sale,” he told reporters after launching the National Blueprint for Behavioural Insights in Health.
Previously, Dr Dzulkefly had said that the MOH is preparing a Cabinet Memorandum on banning e-cigarettes and vape products to ensure a thorough and well-planned implementation. The ban will be rolled out gradually, starting with open-system vapes before extending to all types of vaping products.
In a separate development, Dr Dzulkefly also mentioned that the MOH will propose to the Cabinet to expand the redemption of the Basic Rahmah Contribution (SARA) program to include fruits and vegetables. This aims to encourage healthier eating habits among Malaysians.
“This can be part of a nudging strategy, as we know certain age groups are less inclined to consume vegetables and fruits,” he said. Currently, SARA recipients can redeem essential items from 14 product categories, including rice, bread, cooking oil, flour, biscuits, instant noodles, beverages, personal hygiene products, household cleaning items, home essentials, medicine, and school supplies.
