Read articles from Malaysia

November 21, 2024 by scmp.com

The vape industry in Malaysia faces challenges as Terengganu bans e-cigarette sales due to health concerns and youth marketing. Vape shops offering unique flavors like teh tarik have become popular, attracting former smokers. The health ministry warns of potential costs to treat vape-related lung injuries. Following the ban in Terengganu, the state government refuses to renew licenses for vape sales. Criticism arises after endorsing a vape-sponsored event. The ban reflects growing public health worries and youth protection.

November 18, 2024 by thestar.com.my

The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, has suggested a complete ban on electronic cigarettes or vapes. His Majesty stated that the recommendation was driven by concerns over the rising drug abuse in Pahang, particularly among the youth, according to statistics from the National Anti-Drug Agency. As reported by Sinar Harian, Sultan Abdullah noted that one of the primary factors leading young people into drug addiction, both directly and indirectly, is the use of vapes. "These vape devices are harmful to health. I will express to the government that vaping should be banned completely. There is no need for further consideration, not only in Malaysia but globally," His Majesty declared.

October 24, 2024 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

The Malaysian Society for Harm Reduction (MSHR) held a conference on tobacco harm reduction in Kuala Lumpur, emphasizing the need for tailored policies and collaboration to reduce smoking rates. Experts endorsed reduced-risk products and highlighted New Zealand's success in lowering smoking rates. The conference addressed concerns about youth access to nicotine products and called for evidence-based regulations. MSHR and the Coalition of Asia Pacific Harm Reduction Advocates urged policymakers to implement harm reduction strategies and educate the public on the benefits of such approaches. Collaboration with governments and stakeholders was emphasized to improve public health outcomes in the region.

September 26, 2024 by nst.com.my

The Consumers' Association of Penang (CAP) has urged the government to firmly reject a memorandum from five associations, urging amendments to the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) in favour of the vape industry. The five associations represented over 2,000 vape traders. CAP president Mohideen Abdul Kader said while the vape industry claimed to be a significant revenue generator, this assertion paled in comparison to the enormous medical costs shouldered by taxpayers.

September 09, 2024 by clearingtheair.eu

A new report suggests that better access to vapes and nicotine alternatives could save around 880,000 lives in Malaysia and Uzbekistan by 2060. Despite heavy regulations, smoking rates are projected to increase in both countries. The World Health Organisation predicts a rise in smoking-related deaths. Implementing tobacco harm reduction strategies, including promoting safer alternatives, could drastically reduce these numbers. Successful examples from countries like Sweden and Japan highlight the effectiveness of such measures. The report urges Malaysian and Uzbek governments to prioritize harm reduction strategies to curb smoking rates and save lives.

August 30, 2024 by smokefreesweden.org

Adoption of tobacco harm reduction (THR) measures, including greater access to nicotine alternatives such as e-cigarettes, would help to save 416,000 lives in Malaysia, according to major new research. The WHO projects that smoking prevalence in Malaysia will increase, from 29.7% in 2020 to 30% in 2025, and 18,000 lives will be lost annually by 2060.

August 28, 2024 by youtube.com

The webinar discusses the topics of the Tobacco Harm Reduction and enhanced treatment that could save nearly 880,000 lives in Malaysia and Uzbekistan by 2060 featuring guest speakers Dr. Derek Yach, Prof. Dr. Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh, and Dr. Delon Human.

July 18, 2024 by thestar.com.my

Calls for stricter vape laws in Malaysia have increased after vending machines were found selling vape products easily accessible by youth. Concerns about addiction among teenagers have prompted demands for online vape sales to be banned. Suggestions include registering vape retailers, regular inspections, and public awareness campaigns on the dangers of smoking and vaping. The proposed Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 aims to regulate vape products. The Malaysian Organization of Vape Entity emphasizes the need for clear regulations to prevent minors from vaping. The Health Ministry is reviewing regulations to ban electronic cigarettes and vape product sales, including through vending machines.

June 20, 2024 by freemalaysiatoday.com

Vape retailers have expressed concern over the government’s yet-to-be-implemented move to ban vape displays and introduce “standard” packaging for the products, saying it will deal a heavy blow to their business. The measure would follow the gazettement of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2023 in February, which requires that both tobacco and vape products be sold in plain or standardised packaging.

April 02, 2024 by thesun.my

Universiti Sains Malaysia's National Poison Centre reported a 30.6% increase in nicotine poisoning cases, with teenagers most affected due to vaping. Despite concerns, the Health Minister delisted liquid nicotine without regulation. The unregulated market in Malaysia offers high-nicotine vape products, appealing to young consumers. Vape and e-cigarette companies aggressively market to all, including non-smoking teenagers, leading to addiction and health issues. The Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act aims to regulate vaping, but its passing is delayed.