Pahang to halt vape sales by early next year
A number of states have enacted or are exploring restrictions on e-cigarettes. (Bernama pic)
KUANTAN : Local authorities in Pahang have been urged to ensure the sale of electronic cigarettes, or vapes, is halted by early next year.
Syed Ibrahim Syed Ahmad, who heads Pahang's Islamic religious affairs, rural development and Orang Asli affairs committee, said the move followed the state government's decision to declare the use of electronic cigarettes as haram.
'On May 14, the state executive council endorsed the fatwa issued by the Pahang mufti, which had earlier been forwarded to the state legal adviser on March 19.
'The state government has also begun enforcing the fatwa with immediate effect,' he said in a Facebook post.
The Pahang shariah legal consultative committee has ruled that the use of electronic cigarettes is forbidden as it poses health risks and leads to wastage.
Pahang ruler Al-Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah had previously called for a total ban on the use of electronic cigarettes in the state.
Terengganu, Perlis and Kedah have recently banned the sale of vape products and e-cigarettes, joining Johor and Kelantan, which have imposed such a ban for years now.
Negeri Sembilan and Selangor are also considering a ban.
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