GEORGE TOWN, Nov 12 – The Penang government has urged the federal government to speed up plans for a nationwide ban on electronic cigarettes and vape products.
The state wants stronger action to protect young people from nicotine addiction.
Penang Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said the state welcomed recent developments at the federal level. In particular, he supported the government’s decision not to appeal a court ruling involving liquid nicotine.
He described the move as an important step towards a complete ban on vaping products across Malaysia.
Gooi made the remarks after delivering his keynote address at the 10th Asia-Pacific Smoke-Free Meeting in George Town on Thursday.
Court ruling supports stronger vape controls
On May 15, the Kuala Lumpur High Court ruled that the government’s 2023 decision to remove nicotine liquids and gels used in vape products from the Poisons List was unlawful and irrational.
The court cited the government’s failure to consult the Poisons Board properly.
The federal government later withdrew its appeal against the ruling on Aug 18.
Gooi said Penang would continue enforcing the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024, also known as Act 852.
The state will maintain its existing enforcement measures while waiting for further federal decisions and instructions.
New nicotine products raise health concerns
Gooi also warned about the tobacco industry’s promotion of newer nicotine products.
These include e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products and nicotine pouches.
He said attractive packaging, appealing flavours and social media influencers could encourage young people to try these products.
He was particularly concerned that many young users had never smoked before. This makes efforts to prevent nicotine addiction even more important.
Eight ASEAN countries already ban e-cigarettes
Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (SEATCA) executive director Dr Ulysses Dorotheo said eight of the 11 ASEAN countries had already banned e-cigarettes.
He said Malaysia could become the ninth country to introduce such a ban. The Philippines and Indonesia would then be the remaining two countries without one.
Dorotheo stressed that regional cooperation was essential. Countries must work together to counter tobacco industry influence and protect young people.
Meanwhile, SEATCA board chairman Dr Somsak Chunharas highlighted the role of local authorities and civil society groups.
He said community education and public awareness campaigns could help challenge misleading social media messages about vaping.
Regional meeting focuses on nicotine challenges
The two-day Asia-Pacific Smoke-Free Meeting brings together about 180 delegates from 13 countries.
Participants include representatives from government agencies, civil society organisations and the media.
The meeting focuses on strengthening cooperation and sharing effective smoke-free policies.
It also addresses growing public health concerns linked to e-cigarettes, heated tobacco and other nicotine products.
George Town will share its experience in implementing smoke-free measures. Delegates will also take part in a study tour to learn about the city’s initiatives.
Penang hopes stronger national action and regional cooperation will help protect future generations from nicotine addiction.
Source : BERNAMA | Rewritten By Minutesmy
