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Quick links to detailed datasheets for Malaysia at gsthr.org

Smoking in Malaysia

Current adult tobacco smoking prevalence is 20.9%. (with 0.5% of women and 40.8% of men).

Read articles from Malaysia

May 12, 2025 by nst.com.my

No watchdog, more risk: Vape misuse soars amid regulatory void

The lack of a regulatory body in Malaysia to oversee vape product quality has contributed to their misuse, including drug consumption. Ridhwan Rosli of the Malaysian Vape Chamber of Commerce highlighted that without proper oversight, there’s no way to ensure product safety, leading to cases where vapes are used for illicit drug use.

May 08, 2025 by theedgemalaysia.com

E-cigarette use among youth on the rise

The prevalence of e-cigarette and HTP use is now close to smoking incidence in Malaysia, according to a regional study conducted by Singapore-based consumer insights firm Milieu Insight.

April 28, 2025 by thestar.com.my

BAT to stop selling vape products from 3Q25

British American Tobacco (M) Bhd will discontinue its VUSE e-cigarette range in Malaysia by the third quarter of 2025 to comply with new regulations under Act 852, effective from Oct 1, 2025. The company anticipates minimal financial impact for the year ending Dec 31, 2025. BAT will assess its VUSE products commercially and prioritize combustible value growth while managing operational risks.

April 24, 2025 by freemalaysiatoday.com

Terengganu to enforce ban on e-cigarettes, vapes from Aug 1

Terengganu will ban the sale of e-cigarettes and vapes at businesses starting August 1, with an advertising ban as well. The state government's decision aims to protect public health, especially among the youth. Wan Sukairi Wan Abdullah, the executive councillor, announced the ban after a meeting. A three-month grace period until July 31 will precede the full enforcement, starting August 1.

April 24, 2025 by thestar.com.my

Terengganu enforces ban on e-cigarettes, vapes starting Aug 1

Terengganu will ban e-cigarettes and vapes sales starting August 1, following a state government decision on April 23. The ban includes advertising and revoking business licenses, with penalties for non-compliance. The government aims to protect public health, especially of the youth, from the negative effects of these products. Further measures will be taken to enforce the ban effectively, including penalties for violators and no acceptance of sponsorship from vape producers. Additionally, support will be provided to employees in the vape industry for transitioning to other sustainable job opportunities through entrepreneurship courses.

February 07, 2025 by scmp.com

Malaysia Has to Clear the Air on Vaping Laws

Malaysia’s government appears shrouded in a haze of indecision on vaping, as its leaders vacillate between wanting to stamp out potential health risks to the nation’s youths and keeping young entrepreneurs in business. Without a clear and unified strategy, the country risks rising youth addiction, mounting healthcare costs and an expanding underground market for e-cigarettes.

February 05, 2025 by thestar.com.my

Regulation Key to Curbing Underage Vape Use, Says Industry Group

Malaysia Retail Electronic Cigarette Association president Datuk Adzwan Manas said the industry believes that vape products should not be used by any individual below the age of 18. He said vape products should only be used by adults, especially cigarette smokers who are seeking to quit smoking. Vape products have been proven in many countries to be less harmful compared to cigarettes and effective to help cigarette smokers quit smoking.

November 21, 2024 by scmp.com

Malaysia’s Terengganu to ban e-cigarettes as concerns mount over youth vaping

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

Ban the use of vape completely, says Pahang Sultan

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

Urgent Need for Harm Reduction Policies

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.