IN a move to protect students' health, the Ministry of Education (MOE) has issued a ban on the sale of vape-like candies in schools, according to Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.
The Minister said all food items posing a health risk to students, including those resembling vape devices, are strictly prohibited on school grounds.
“We will take firm action against anyone found selling food that jeopardizes the safety of our students,” Fadhlina stated. She also reassured the public that dangerous food items will not be allowed within school premises.
However, she highlighted the need for collaboration with local authorities and the Ministry of Health Malaysia to curb the sale of such items outside school grounds.
The Minister also urged school administrators and principals to engage with relevant authorities to discuss measures to address this growing issue.
Fadhlina's remarks follow concerns raised by the Consumers Association of Penang (CAP), which recently alerted the public about the increasing presence of vape-like candies and syringes on the market.
These products, which closely resemble real vaping devices and syringes, have become particularly popular due to their colourful and attractive designs, making them highly appealing to children.
CAP's education officer, N.V. Subbarow, warned that these candies could contribute to the normalization of smoking habits among the younger population.
Bernama reported, the ban was announced during the Kelantan-level MOE's Jaulah Ramadan 2025 event, which saw over 900 students from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama Naim Lil-Banat coming together for a communal breaking of the fast.
The event aims to promote empathy, resilience, and the values of giving, while reinforcing the spirit of unity during the holy month of Ramadan. – March 10, 2025
