Kedah's vape licence freeze move lauded, but online sales still a concern

New Straits Times

15-05-2025

ALOR STAR: The Kedah Consumer Association (Cake) has commended the state government's decision to cease renewing business licences for vape and electronic cigarette retailers.
Its president, Yusrizal Yusof, praised the initiative as a positive step towards curbing vape addiction and encouraging a healthier lifestyle among Kedahans.
However, he also called for continued vigilance in monitoring online vape sales.
"The move targets sales at physical premises, but retailers may still operate from home or via online platforms," he told the New Straits Times.
"Therefore, we urge the government to ensure that all vape-related sales remain in compliance with existing regulations."
Yesterday, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor announced that the state government would not renew business licences for vape retailers expiring this year.
This measure forms part of a broader, stricter policy aimed at tackling the escalating threat of synthetic drug abuse.
He highlighted growing concerns over the misuse of synthetic drugs via vape products, which can be easily adulterated with illicit substances and distributed widely—including among school students.
Yusrizal also urged law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to root out illicit substances in vape products.
"We rarely hear of licensed vape retailers being involved in the sale of illegal substances. These products are mainly distributed by drug peddlers through online platforms," he said.
"We therefore call on the government to launch a targeted crackdown on those selling 'magic mushroom' vape products."
He added that curbing vape usage would require serious and sustained effort from the authorities, given its growing popularity as an alternative to traditional cigarettes.
"Even in Japan, vaping is gaining traction among individuals attempting to quit smoking, and we're witnessing a similar trend in many other countries," he said.
"Despite decades of anti-smoking campaigns, between 20 to 25 per cent of our population still smokes. Vaping is often seen as an alternative for those trying to quit smoking."
In a related appeal, Cake also told the state government to consider introducing restrictions on the sale of alcohol and conventional cigarettes as part of broader efforts to promote public health.
From an economic standpoint, Yusrizal acknowledged the need for a mitigation plan to address potential losses in tax revenue stemming from the vape sales ban in business premises.
"We understand that the federal government collects taxes on vape products. Therefore, the government will need to formulate a strategy to offset the revenue shortfall resulting from the prohibition of vape sales in licensed premises," he said.