NGO: Enforce smoking control act to protect underage Sarawakians from dangers of vaping

Focus Malaysia

11-07-2025

PERTUBUHAN Transformasi Dayak (TRADA), an advocacy group for Sarawak's youth, has expressed concern with recent news highlighting that Sarawak recorded the highest number of underage vape users based on the 2022 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS).
This has prompted TRADA president Joseph Janting to regard the issue as requiring immediate and focused attention by all relevant authorities.
Concurring with the Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development' Ministry's commitment to find a solution on the matter, he pointed to existing legal framework, namely the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) which came into effect on Oct 1 last year.
'It is critical to recognise that in 2022 when the NHMS data was collected, there were no laws in place to regulate the vape industry,' recalled Janting.
'The difference today is that we now have Act 852, a dedicated regulatory framework for vape products which we must fully leverage to address the issue through firm and consistent enforcement.'
Janting further warned of recent reports which revealed the open sale of drug-laced vape products on social media and e-commerce platforms.
'Often disguised as flavoured vape and marketed to younger users, these illegal products highlight the urgent need for targeted enforcement rather than blanket bans,' he stressed.
'We're encouraged that the Ministry is taking proactive steps to address this issue, hence hoping to see strong enforcement against those who continue to sell to the underage.
'As a Sarawak-based NGO, TRADA stands ready to support efforts that safeguard our underaged from harm while ensuring regulations are fairly and effectively implemented.'
In a related development, TRADA also stressed the importance of directing enforcement efforts at irresponsible and illegal sellers who are knowingly violating the law by selling to the underage.
'Legal players are now subject to strict licensing, registration and compliance requirements under Act 852 but it's illegal, unregulated sellers who pose the real risk to underage individuals,' observed Janting.
'These bad actors must be dealt with seriously, with tough penalties to deter future violations.'
As long-term solution, TRADA is of the opinion that banning legal vape sales will only escalate the growth of underaged vape uses in Sarawak.
'The real danger lies in unregulated online platforms where illegal, drug-laced products are being sold with little oversight. Enforcement, not prohibition, is what will protect the underage,' insisted Janting.
'We urge all relevant agencies at both federal and state levels to work together to enforce Act 852 decisively to ensure that Sarawak's next generation is protected from harm through smart, targeted action.' – July 11, 2025