Vaping may soon become illegal in Malaysia as the Health Ministry is currently looking at laws that would ban e-cigarettes, vape pens, or other similar devices.
According to The Star Online, Health Minister Datuk Seri S Subramaniam told reporters at Parliament lobby today that vaping will be banned once they have settled the legalities.
Dr Subramaniam told the reporters that the ministry has been wanting to ban vaping before it affects public’s health. He said:
We want to choose an Act that will give us the most power which will enable us to ban it. I would like this to happen before it becomes a major health issue.
“Once we have settled that, we will make the necessary arrangements,” he added. The official announcement will be made once the ministry has conducted its study.
E-cig is viewed as a safer alternative for smokers as the battery-powered vaporiser stimulates the feeling of smoking without the tobacco combusition. However, vaping has become a trend that even non-smokers are starting to vape.
As such, Dr. Subramaniam had previously advised Malaysians to stop vaping or smoking e-cigarettes until its risks are announced. He also said that the ministry was in discussions with various agencies and related parties to “get their views on the effects these methods of smoking have on health”.
Just yesterday (27th October), it was reported that Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) is now prohibiting airline passengers from keeping electronic cigarettes (aka e-cigs) in checked baggage. E-cigs users are also required to detach batteries from their vaping device to ensure the safety of other passenger on board
They implemented the regulations after an incident where a man’s vape battery suddenly burst into flames on board the Malindo Air flight OD1003. Though no fatalities were reported, the man sustained burns on the thighs and left hand.
What do you think of the ban? Do you think the Health Ministry should ban vaping? Will it kill the vaping trend? Share your thoughts in the comments box below.
Sources: The Star Online, NST.
