Nearly a year after Act 852, online platforms still openly sell vape products.
Malaysia’s nationwide vape ban has failed to stop the thriving online trade of e-cigarettes and e-liquids, with sales continuing across websites and social media groups almost a year after the law came into force.
Loopholes in the Online Marketplace
The Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2023 (Act 852) prohibits online sales of vape products, yet a quick search through Internet search engines reveals multiple sellers. While the keyword “vape” no longer appears on major e-commerce sites, searching specific brand names brings up hidden listings. Independent online stores, easily found in the first three pages of search results, continue to sell openly.
Weak Age Verification and Easy Access
Most online vape stores require only a simple click to confirm users are over 18 — a measure easily bypassed. Purchases can be completed without further checks using e-wallets or credit cards. Social media groups also act as marketplaces, where members post photos, prices, and product details, enabling direct orders through group administrators.
Simple Buying Process Fuels Accessibility
In these public groups, buyers provide their personal details, make payment, and have products shipped directly to their addresses. This streamlined process makes it easy for anyone — including minors — to bypass the law. Some students reportedly obtain vapes from middlemen who buy them online in bulk.
Enforcement Gaps Raise Concerns
Anti-smoking activist NV Subbarow from the Consumers Association of Penang criticized the lack of meaningful enforcement, saying, “We can have hundreds of pages on regulations, but if there is no enforcement, it will all be wasted.” He called for heavier penalties against violators and a complete ban on vape products.
Phased Implementation of Act 852
The law, enforced in stages from October 1, 2024, first banned sales in educational institutions, online platforms, markets, and vending machines. A display ban at retail counters, affecting around 51,000 outlets, is set to take effect on October 1, 2025. The third phase will regulate the packaging of smoking products.
Public Health at Stake
Without strong enforcement, public health advocates warn that Act 852’s intended impact will be undermined. The continued availability of vape products online threatens to reverse efforts to curb nicotine addiction, especially among youth.
Malaysia’s experience with Act 852 shows that passing laws is only the first step. Without robust online monitoring, stricter verification systems, and stronger penalties, the illegal vape trade will remain an accessible and lucrative business — putting public health and youth protection at risk across the region.
Sources: Straits Times (2025) , The Star (2025)
Keywords: Malaysia, Vape Ban, Online Vape Sales, Smoking Products Act, E-Liquids, Law Enforcement
