PM Lawrence Wong announces crackdown on vaping, citing risks of addictive and dangerous substances
Singapore is set to impose far tougher penalties on vaping, treating it as a drug offense rather than a tobacco violation, in a move aimed at curbing illegal use among youths.
From Tobacco Fine to Drug Crime
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced during his National Day Rally speech on August 17, 2025, that Singapore will escalate its war on vaping by categorizing it as a drug-related crime. Until now, possession or use of vape products carried a maximum fine of S$2,000 (Rp25 million), but Wong stressed fines alone are no longer sufficient.
Jail Terms for Sellers
The new framework will impose harsher penalties, including imprisonment, especially for those who sell vape products laced with hazardous substances. Wong warned that many illegal vapes circulating in the country contain etomidate, a powerful anesthetic with high risks if misused. In Singapore, such mixtures are often referred to as “kpod”.
A Growing Threat to Youth
Wong underscored that vaping is not merely a lifestyle issue but a serious public health threat. “Vape is only the delivery tool. The real danger lies in what’s inside,” he cautioned, adding that while etomidate is the current concern, more dangerous substances could emerge in future. The government’s decision reflects growing fears over the rising use of illicit vape products among Singapore’s younger generation.
National Enforcement and Rehabilitation
To tackle the problem, Singapore will step up enforcement nationwide, making vape trafficking a priority for drug-related policing. At the same time, authorities will expand rehabilitation programs for individuals addicted to vaping, offering medical and counseling support to help them quit.
Education Campaign in Schools
A large-scale public education campaign will be rolled out across primary schools, universities, and community institutions. The program will be jointly led by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Health, aiming to raise awareness of the hidden dangers of vaping and reinforce prevention from an early age.
Commitment to Public Health
By reclassifying vaping as a drug problem, Singapore sends a strong signal of its determination to safeguard its youth and uphold its strict anti-drug stance. The policy also aligns with the city-state’s longstanding reputation for prioritizing public health and maintaining one of the world’s toughest regulatory environments.
Singapore’s move to criminalize vaping as a drug offense reflects a broader shift from regulation to deterrence. With harsher penalties, nationwide enforcement, and extensive education efforts, the government aims to shield its younger population from addiction and dangerous substances—solidifying its zero-tolerance approach to public health risks.
Sources: CNBC Indonesia (2025) , Batamnews (2025)
Keywords: Singapore Vape Ban, Lawrence Wong, Vape Drug Law, Vape Crackdown, Public Health, Youth Vaping
