HIS Majesty Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah has called for Malaysia’s borders to be reinforced amid growing concern over drug trafficking, and has also voiced strong support for a nationwide ban on electronic cigarettes or vape.
His Majesty emphasised the urgent need for stricter control at national entry points, including airports, ports, and land borders, which he identified as key channels for drug smuggling.
"The real question is, where is the source? Strengthening the borders is the key... that’s where it starts," Bernama cited His Majesty said during an audience with the leadership of the Malaysian Women Journalists Association (PERTAMA) on Wednesday.
"Whether at borders, airport terminals, or on ships… all of these require close monitoring," he added.
The PERTAMA delegation was led by its President, Sariha Mohd Ali, along with Deputy President Nasriah Darus, Secretary Nor Hasliza Abdullah, Treasurer M Saraswathi, and other committee members.
Al-Sultan Abdullah also expressed grave concern over the rising prevalence of drug abuse among youths, stating that existing enforcement measures must be bolstered to ensure laws are impactful and effective.
He noted a troubling trend involving drug smuggling via fishing vessels in open waters, particularly in the east coast states of Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang. His Majesty previously revealed that, as of November last year, the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) had recorded 11,750 active drug addicts in Pahang alone — a figure he described as deeply worrying.
In the same audience, Al-Sultan Abdullah reiterated his support for a complete ban on vaping nationwide, citing its health risks and threat to future generations.
"Vape should be banned entirely. Do not sympathise — we are only harming our own people further," he said, noting that Pahang had already taken the first steps towards implementing such a ban.
His Majesty added that the ban will be formalised through legislation in the State Legislative Assembly, before being enforced by local authorities.
"We are now in the process of educating the public that vape is a prohibited substance. It’s only a matter of time before it is enforced," he said.
The Pahang State Government had earlier, in June, announced its decision to ban vape based on a fatwa issued by the Pahang Mufti Department, according to State Islamic Affairs, Rural Development and Orang Asli Committee Chairman, Datuk Seri Syed Ibrahim Syed Ahmad. - July 3, 2025
