BNN seeks vaporiser prohibition after lab detects illegal substances in vape liquids.

Indonesia’s National Narcotics Agency proposed banning vaporisers in the 2026 narcotics and psychotropics Bill after laboratory tests found illicit drugs in vape liquids, igniting debate between health experts and the vaping industry.

Proposal And Rationale
On April 7 BNN head Suyudi Ario Seto told House Commission III that vaporisers are increasingly used to consume drugs and recommended including a ban in the 2026 National Legislative Programme. BNN presented lab results and argued prohibition would reduce drug circulation and misuse.

Laboratory Findings
BNN’s central laboratory tested 341 vape liquid samples: 11 contained synthetic cannabinoids, 23 contained etomidate, and one tested positive for methamphetamine. Etomidate is now class-2, while synthetic cannabinoids and methamphetamine are class-1 substances under Indonesian law.

Support From Health Experts
Some public-health figures back the proposal. Mouhammad Bigwanto, chairman of the Indonesian Health Policy Chamber (RUKKI), told The Jakarta Post on April 8 that a ban simplifies enforcement and addresses safety concerns beyond conventional health risks, echoing measures in several ASEAN countries.

Industry And Community Pushback
Vape associations and small-business groups warned a ban could harm livelihoods for micro, small, and medium enterprises, retailers, and informal workers. The Indonesian Vape Workers Association and Batam’s vapers called for robust data and transparent processes, arguing enforcement should target illicit drug suppliers rather than legal devices.

Policy Considerations And Next Steps
Commission III member Abdullah said on April 10 the proposal needs careful review to weigh economic impacts and strengthen anti-drug measures. Policymakers must choose between an outright ban to curb misuse and regulated approaches that protect legal businesses while targeting criminal supply chains.

The proposal to ban vaporisers spotlights tensions between drug-control imperatives and economic effects on Indonesia’s vape sector. Indonesians face regulatory choices that will affect public health, jobs, and enforcement strategy; Singaporeans observing regional policy shifts may see implications for cross-border cooperation on illicit drug control and public-safety standards.

Sources: Straits Times (2026) , The Jakarta Post (2026)

Keywords: Vaping Ban, National Narcotics Agency, Vape Liquid Tests, Drug Enforcement, Economic Impact