More states encouraged to stop issuing licence for vape sales, says Dzulkefly
PUTRAJAYA: The government is encouraging more states to stop issuing licences to premises selling vapes and e-cigarettes, in line with what some states have done.
"We hope more will take the position of not issuing licences to vape premises," said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad in a press conference on the Lung Health Initiative Malaysia 2025-2030.
"Otherwise, any licences issued must strictly comply with the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024," he added.
When asked if the government would consider a nationwide ban, Dzulkefly said the federal government had adopted a regulatory enforcement model following the passage of the Act.
"We took a firm position to regulate tobacco-related products. That is the stance and position of the federal government.
"At the same time, we support state governments that have the authority not to issue vape sales licences. So let us work together," he said.
Regardless of the present stance, Dzulkefly acknowledged that no legislation was static.
"We will continue to review the matter," he said.
On April 24, Terengganu Local Government, Housing and Health Committee chairman Datuk Wan Sukairi Wan Abdullah announced that the state would ban the sale of vape products at all premises from Aug 1.
Wan Sukairi said the decision was a proactive measure to curb the sale and use of vape products, which might have negative health effects on the younger generation.
On April 27, Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said he wanted to emulate Terengganu's move, stating he would raise the matter at the state executive council meeting.
Previously, both Johor and Kelantan had enforced a ban on vape and e-cigarette sales since January 2016.
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