Smoking in Malaysia
In Malaysia, cigarettes are legally sold, smoked, and imported, but it is illegal to buy them from vending machines or online. Also, health warnings on packaging are mandatory, but there are no legal restrictions on smoking in public places. The total tobacco taxation rate is 0.52. Smoking remains prevalent with around 4.9 million current smokers recorded in 2024, which corresponds to 17.9% of adults current smoking prevalence overall, 0.5% among females and 33.6% among males. In 2021, smoking-related deaths was approximately 24,100, which represented 10.75% of all deaths, 15.03% recorded among males and 4.44% among females.
Read articles from Malaysia
November 20, 2025 by theedgemalaysia.com
Billowing smoke from regulations clouding tobacco firms’ outlook
The Malaysian tobacco and e-cigarette industry faces increasing regulations and taxes, with bans on vape products in several states, and discussions about a nationwide vape ban. Tobacco companies are adjusting to the changes, with British American Tobacco withdrawing a vaping product. The Ministry of Health proposed a vape liquid tax increase, while Japan Tobacco is focusing on heated tobacco products as part of a global shift towards reduced-risk products. Malaysia's illicit cigarette trade is declining, but potential revenue from properly taxing vape products remains untapped. Japan Tobacco plans significant investments in reducing risky products, like heated tobacco sticks, expecting a shift towards smoke-free alternatives.
November 10, 2025 by businesstoday.com.my
How Malaysia Can Finally Win The War On Smoking
Despite aspirations to be smoke-free, Malaysia struggles with high smoking rates and lacks clear harm reduction strategies, unlike successful models like Sweden and the UK. Embracing proven harm reduction tools, such as vaping, could help Malaysia combat smoking-related deaths and health costs. By focusing on science-based and compassionate approaches, policymakers can lead the country towards a healthier, smoke-free future. It's crucial to shift the narrative around alternatives like vaping, enforce regulations, educate the public, and support smokers in quitting. Following successful international examples, Malaysia can make progress in reducing smoking prevalence and improving public health outcomes.
October 17, 2025 by thevibes.com
Total ban on vape not the right solution, says Teresa Kok
MP Teresa Kok questioned why there is no tax on vape products in Budget 2026 when taxes on tobacco have increased. She highlighted the growing vape industry in Malaysia and the need for regulations rather than a total ban to avoid black market activity. Kok suggested only allowing 'closed system' vapes for sale, controlled by registered companies. She emphasized that a total ban would not deter vape use but could lead to smuggling. Strict controls were recommended before considering a ban to safeguard industry operators and tax revenue. - In summary, MP Teresa Kok raised concerns about the absence of a vape tax in Budget 2026, advocating for regulation over prohibition to manage the industry effectively.
October 10, 2025 by scoop.my
Consumer group slams 900% vape tax proposal as ‘illogical and self-defeating’
Samsul Kamal Ariffin critiqued Malaysia's Health Ministry proposal to raise vape liquid excise duty by 900%, considering it illogical and detrimental to public health objectives. He emphasized the importance of treating vaping as a tobacco harm reduction tool to assist smokers in quitting. Samsul warned that banning or heavily taxing vape products could lead to an increase in the black market and harm stakeholders. The Finance Ministry had initially considered a more moderate tax increase from 40 sen to 80 sen per milliliter. Samsul urged the government to regulate vaping effectively for the benefit of public health, retailers, and tax revenue.
October 08, 2025 by tobaccoreporter.com
Malaysian Health Ministry Proposes Vape Liquid Tax Increase
The Malaysian Ministry of Health plans to raise excise duty on vape liquids tenfold, proposing MYR4 per mL, ahead of a complete ban on e-cigarettes. The Ministry seeks to align vape taxes with those on cigarettes to discourage vaping. Industry representatives push back, suggesting a maximum tax of 80 sen per milliliter to prevent increased illicit trade. The government aims to implement the ban gradually through education and enforcement, pending Cabinet approval.
October 07, 2025 by filtermag.org
Malaysia’s Impending Vape Ban Poses Multiple Threats
Malaysia plans to ban vaping products by mid-2026, citing concerns about unregulated sales. Dr. Wan Puteh highlights risks of illegal markets and potential harm to smokers. Banning vapes may increase illicit trade and harm public health, as seen in neighboring countries. Advocates suggest legalizing and regulating to ensure consumer safety. The ban could impact over 30,000 workers and a billion-dollar industry. They urge the government to consider a balanced regulatory approach that supports harm reduction. The move aims to protect public health and prevent the proliferation of unsafe products in the market.
October 03, 2025 by thesun.my
Over 60 vape shops in Perak must cease operations by Jan 1 2026
Licensed premises selling electronic cigarettes or vape in Perak must close by January 1, confirmed by State Government Committee chairman Sandrea Ng. No new licences will be issued, and existing ones will be revoked once current stock is sold. This aligns with Perak's policy to ban e-cigarette sales after the deadline. Enforcement is under local authorities, with a grace period until January for traders to adjust. The ban is set for October 1, following a proposal by the Health Department, presented at a State Executive Council meeting on September 22. The government will ensure compliance and support affected businesses in transitioning to other operations.
October 03, 2025 by themalaysianreserve.com
Exco: Over 60 vape shops in Perak must cease operations by Jan 1, 2026
Over 60 licensed vape shops in Perak must cease operations by January 1 next year, as no new licences will be issued. Businesses with licences valid beyond that date may stay open only to clear existing stock, after which their licences will be revoked. The policy is part of the state government’s ban on e-cigarette sales.
October 01, 2025 by channelnewsasia.com
What’s at stake for Malaysia as it eyes total ban on vapes by mid-2026?
In Kuala Lumpur, a vape shop faces closure due to Malaysia's planned vape ban by mid-2026, leading to uncertain industry regulations. Health experts advocate for controlled regulation over a complete ban, citing concerns of boosting an illicit market. Authorities are urged to enhance enforcement of existing tobacco product laws. While some warn of health risks, others propose a harm reduction approach. Public Health Ministry's comment is awaited amid industry uncertainties.
September 08, 2025 by thesun.my
MRECA calls for inclusive consultation on vape regulations
The Malaysia Retail Electronic Cigarette Association criticizes the Health Parliament Special Select Committee's biased report recommending a complete e-cigarette ban without input from stakeholders. MRECA stresses the importance of consulting industry members, including manufacturers and consumers, before making allegations. They advocate for transparent regulations based on evidence and call for fair consultation processes to prevent biased recommendations. MRECA emphasizes the need for comprehensive reviews based on factual data to avoid unjustly targeting the vape industry. Adzwan Ab Manas urges inclusive decision-making to maintain credibility and ensure industry involvement in public health solutions.
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