THE local vape industry expresses its full support for the call made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to take immediate action to address the issue of drug abuse and the use of vape products among youths.
Industry players agree that drug abuse is indeed a major contributor to various social woes and public health concerns, hence requiring serious attention and comprehensive solutions involving all stakeholders.
However, the industry emphasises that registered players under existing vape associations consistently comply with business standards, including refraining from selling illicit substances or marketing to underage buyers.
In fact, vape products that are legally sold and registered in the local market do not carry the same risks as narcotics as their contents adhere to guidelines and standards set by the authorities.
“The real issue doesn’t stem from legal vape products,” insisted the Malaysia Retail Electronic Cigarette Association (MRECA) president Datuk Adzwan Ab Manas.
“What’s truly concerning is the sale of vape products laced with drugs by irresponsible parties which clearly endangers users and tarnishes the reputation of the industry as a whole. Even more troubling is the fact that these irresponsible actors are selling to minors.”
Adzwan further stressed that current regulations clearly prohibit the sale of vape products to minors but violations still occur in the black market due to enforcement loopholes.
“We are confident that our members are not violating the law or selling to minors. However, should any of them be found guilty of such misconduct, we fully agree that appropriate punishment should be imposed,” he added.
In the same development, the Persatuan Peniaga Vape Melayu Malaysia (PPVM) president Mohd Sabri Ismail highlighted that given business is inherently profit-driven, traders should strive to operate transparently to ensure the longevity and integrity of their enterprises.
“As licensed and registered traders, we certainly don’t wish to engage in any activity that could jeopardise our business,” he stressed.
“We believe that those selling dangerous vape products and targeting minors are not part of the legitimate or licensed vape business community.”.
In this regard, industry representatives agree that enforcement is the key to ensuring the effectiveness of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852).
“We call for strengthened and comprehensive enforcement—not only against those selling to minors but also against parties distributing vape products mixed with prohibited substances,” urged the Malaysia E-Vaporisers and Tobacco Alternative Association (MEVTA) president Mohamad Neezam Talib. – June 23, 2025
