Yet another state in Malaysia is imposing a ban on vaping.
In a report by The Star Online, the sale and usage of electronic cigarettes will be officially banned in Terengganu effective 1st January 2016 (Friday). State secretary Datuk Osman Muda announced the news through a text message.
According to Osman, the decision was made after the government’s agreement with the state fatwa council declaring smoking e-cigarettes or vaping as “haram” (forbidden).
He also said in a statement that the state government would hold a meeting with vape traders on 3rd January (Sunday) to explain the ban policy. However, it is unclear whether there’s a penalty for offenders.
Terengganu is the latest state to ban vaping from next year onwards. The states that have banned the sale of vapes include Penang, Kedah, Johor, and Kelantan. Malacca is considering a ban on vaping too, but the state government will decide after authorities complete a series of studies. The Selangor government will also announce its decision on 13th January.
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News of a ban on vaping first surfaced earlier in November after Health Minister Datuk Seri S Subramaniam revealed that vaping will be banned once they have settled the legalities. The ministry then announced that they were looking to implement an excise tax on e-cigarettes and vapes.
Though Malaysia’s Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said that the Cabinet had decided against imposing a ban on electronic cigarettes/vape or vaping, raids on vape outlets were conducted nationwide. Vaping, or the use of e-cigarettes, is officially banned in all government schools and public universities as well.
A vape trader was recently charged under the Poisons Act 1952 in Kota Baru as well. The case is believed to be the first case against vaping.
What do you think of the ban on vaping? Do you think that it should be banned? Share your thoughts in the comment box below.
Source: The Star Online.
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