Yuneswaran slams vape licensing move, says healthcare costs outweigh any tax revenue
As Malaysia grapples with a booming vape industry, Segamat MP R. Yuneswaran has renewed calls for a full federal ban, warning that public health and national finances are at serious risk if regulation remains weak.
Vape Industry’s Growing Threat
On June 3, R. Yuneswaran issued a strong statement demanding a total ban on the sale, use, and distribution of vape products. He cited alarming projections, including up to RM369 million in annual healthcare costs by 2030 for treating vaping-related illnesses—almost wiping out the expected RM500 million in vape tax revenue. “The health cost outweighs the economic gain,” he warned.
State Governments Take the Lead
While the federal government has yet to impose a national ban, states like Johor, Kedah, and Terengganu have already refused to renew vape-related business licences. Kelantan, Perlis, Negeri Sembilan, and Penang are either implementing or considering similar moves. Selangor has even instructed local councils to remove vape advertisements in public areas.
Criticism Over Legalisation Loopholes
Yuneswaran also criticised the 2023 exemption of nicotine-based vape liquids from the Poisons Act 1952, which has led to widespread unregulated sales. “This decision allowed the vape market to grow rapidly, especially among teenagers,” he said, adding that the absence of regulatory control has worsened nicotine addiction risks.
Missed Opportunity With GEG Clause
The MP expressed disappointment over the removal of the Generational End Game (GEG) clause from the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024. The GEG would have prohibited nicotine sales to individuals born after 2007. Yuneswaran described its exclusion as a setback in the country’s fight against nicotine addiction.
Push for Action in Parliament
The Segamat MP, representing PKR under the Pakatan Harapan coalition, stated that a federal-level ban will be brought up during the July Parliament sitting. He urged the government not to prioritise short-term profits over the long-term well-being of Malaysians, especially the youth.
This escalating vape debate reveals a growing divide between health policy and industrial interests. For communities in Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia—where cross-border health and trade concerns intersect—the issue demands careful scrutiny and swift legislative clarity to safeguard future generations.
Sources: The Star (2025) , Code Blue (2025)
Keywords: Vape Ban Malaysia, Public Healthcare Burden, Nicotine Addiction Youth, R Yuneswaran, Vape Regulation, Control Of Smoking Act
