Kuala Lumpur, 11 September 2025 — The Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy strongly commends the Malaysian Government for its decision to implement a phased full ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes and vaping products.

“This bold move reflects the Government’s commitment to protect public health, particularly young Malaysians, from the dangers of vaping and nicotine addiction. This phased approach beginning with open-system vapourisers which are easily modified, misused and spiked with adulterated vapes liquids and mixed with drugs such as etomidate, is the right thing to do. We have to be firm and pragmatic,” said Azrul Mohd Khalib, Chief Executive of the Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy.

“Malaysia is finally taking the right step in tackling a growing public health crisis. We support the stance as described in Health Minister Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad’s recent written reply to the Dewan Negara.”

“For too long, Malaysia has been out of step with surrounding countries which have banned vape and e-cigarettes. Despite the recent introduction of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 which remains not fully enforced pending an October deadline, display bans have been largely unobserved or ignored, unregulated high nicotine vape products continue to be widely available, marketed aggressively to young people, and becoming a gateway to nicotine addiction.”

“This announcement demonstrates leadership, courage, and a recognition that public health must come first.”

Several state governments, including Johor, Kelantan, Terengganu, Perlis, Kedah, and Pahang, have already taken steps to refuse the issuing of vape retail licences. Other states are currently considering doing the same. There is a nationwide urgency.