Health Ministry pushes phased ban on vapes, with experts praising government’s decisive move
Malaysia is preparing to impose a full ban on electronic cigarettes and vapes, beginning with open-system devices, in what health experts call a long-overdue step to protect public health.
Phased Ban to Curb Misuse
Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad confirmed in a written parliamentary reply on September 9 that Malaysia is “moving towards” a full prohibition of vaping products. The first phase targets open-system vapes, which allow users to refill devices with any substance, making them prone to misuse. The ban will eventually expand to all vape products once Cabinet approval is secured.
Legal and Regulatory Context
Malaysia’s Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), passed last October, currently regulates tobacco and vape sales by prohibiting sales to minors, restricting advertising, and controlling packaging. While this law formalized the vape industry, it also created what Dzulkefly described as a “legitimate expectation” under the law, meaning a sudden ban could invite legal challenges. Hence, the phased strategy provides a more measured approach.
Expert Praise for Bold Move
The Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy commended the government’s decision, calling it a “bold move” that prioritizes the health of young Malaysians. CEO Azrul Mohd Khalib said targeting open-system devices first is pragmatic, as they are easily tampered with and sometimes spiked with substances such as the anaesthetic etomidate. He added that the move aligns Malaysia with regional counterparts that already prohibit vaping.
Regional and State-Level Comparisons
Neighbouring countries including Singapore, Brunei, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam have already banned vaping outright. In Malaysia, six states—Johor, Kelantan, Terengganu, Perlis, Kedah, and Pahang—have restricted vape sales by refusing to issue retail licences, but only the federal government can enforce nationwide prohibition on sale, possession, and use.
Ongoing Preparations for Full Ban
Dzulkefly said his ministry has engaged in detailed discussions with agencies such as the Ministry of Finance, Customs Department, police, and the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry. The outcome will be presented to Cabinet as a formal policy memorandum to establish the legal basis for a nationwide ban.
Public Health at the Forefront
Malaysia has struggled for years to regulate vaping, despite early calls for a ban dating back to 2015. Dzulkefly stressed that it is no longer a matter of if but when. Public health advocates argue that a decisive national ban is necessary to combat rising nicotine addiction and protect younger generations, ensuring Malaysia aligns with global health standards.
Malaysia’s phased approach to banning vapes underscores a balancing act between legal realities and urgent public health needs. With strong support from health experts and growing regional alignment, the country appears set to close regulatory gaps and move firmly toward full prohibition, reinforcing its commitment to safeguard citizens against nicotine and substance abuse.
Sources: CNA (2025) , CodeBlue (2025)
Keywords: Malaysia Vape Ban, Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad, Open-System Vapes, Control of Smoking Products Act 852, Galen Centre, ASEAN Vape Policies
