Johor Bahru: Malaysia’s government has reaffirmed its commitment to implement a full nationwide ban on e-cigarettes and vape products, citing growing public health risks and concerns over contaminated vape liquids.
Photo credits: New Straits Times
Government Moves Toward Nationwide Vape Ban
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad confirmed that a Cabinet Memorandum is currently being finalised and is expected to be tabled early next year. The move signals the government’s intention to formally outlaw the sale, use, and distribution of e-cigarettes and vaping devices across Malaysia.
According to the Minister, the government’s focus is no longer on whether such a ban should happen, but rather on determining the appropriate timing and implementation process. Authorities are working toward enforcing the ban as soon as practical, with a target timeframe of mid-2026 or, at the latest, by the end of 2026.
Health Risks Driving Policy Change
The push for a complete ban is driven by increasing evidence linking vape usage to serious health risks. Authorities have raised concerns over vape liquids found to contain banned and harmful substances, including synthetic drugs that pose significant dangers to users.
Health officials have also highlighted the rising prevalence of vaping among younger individuals, warning that e-cigarettes may contribute to early nicotine addiction and long-term health complications. Reports of drug-laced vape liquids have further intensified calls for stronger regulatory action.
Phased Approach and Regulatory Oversight
The Malaysian government plans to implement the ban in stages. The initial phase is expected to focus on open-system vaping devices, which allow users to refill liquids and are more susceptible to misuse. Subsequent phases would extend restrictions to all remaining vape products.
A special committee led by senior public health officials and medical experts is currently studying the broader social, legal, and enforcement implications of the ban. Their findings will help guide Cabinet-level decisions and ensure the policy is implemented responsibly.
Regional Context and Enforcement Direction
Malaysia’s planned ban aligns with stricter regional approaches toward vaping adopted by several neighbouring countries. Authorities believe decisive action is necessary to prevent the proliferation of illicit vape products and safeguard public health.
The government has stressed that this policy shift is not reactionary but part of a longer-term strategy to address evolving public health challenges linked to nicotine consumption and drug contamination risks.
Supporting Public Health and Compliance
As governments across Asia strengthen regulations around vaping and substance misuse, accurate screening and enforcement mechanisms play an increasingly important role in public safety initiatives.
Learn more about advanced screening solutions used by enforcement and healthcare agencies:
Frequently asked questions
Q: When did Malaysia first legalise nicotine e-liquids for vaping?
A: In early 2023, Malaysia removed liquid nicotine from the Poisons List to place e-cigarettes under excise tax regulations. This change effectively legalised the sale of nicotine e-liquids and led to rapid growth in the vaping market.
Q: What is the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852)?
A: The Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) is legislation enacted in July 2024 to regulate smoking and vaping products. It introduced restrictions such as banning retail displays of e-cigarettes, prohibiting online and vending machine sales, limiting nicotine strength, and requiring mandatory product registration. The law came into force in April 2025.
Q: How did enforcement actions affect Malaysia’s vape industry after 2024?
A: From October 2024 onwards, Malaysian authorities intensified inspections and enforcement actions against the vape industry. These measures significantly reduced the number of registered vape brands and product variants, aiming to curb illicit sales and ensure compliance with public health regulations.
Source: Adapted from reporting by New Straits Times. Content rewritten for informational purposes.