THE government should emulate Singapore’s firm stance by classifying the use of electronic cigarettes and vape as a drug-related issue, the Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) said on Sunday, amid growing concern over its impact on youth.
CAP senior education officer NV Subbarow called for tougher enforcement of existing laws and immediate government action, citing the widespread availability of harmful chemicals in vaping products sold in Malaysia, including addictive substances such as etomidate.
“This cannot be taken lightly — it concerns the future of our younger generation,” he said. “If our youth start dying from vape addiction, who will take responsibility? Can the government compensate for these losses?”
Subbarow accused Members of Parliament and State Assembly representatives of lacking urgency on the matter, saying many seemed more inclined to consult vape traders than protect public health.
“Unfortunately, our lawmakers do not appear to care about the dangers of vaping,” he said. “They’re more interested in engaging with the vaping industry than focusing on the wellbeing of the public.”
While smoking rates are declining, Subbarow noted that vaping and e-cigarette use is rising rapidly among students, young adults, and women. He warned that without firm action, more teenagers could fall into addiction under the guise of vaping.
He also questioned the delay in the government's commitment to ban vape outright.
“Recently, the Health Minister stated that vape would be banned — but when? CAP wants a clear explanation of the Ministry of Health’s actual stance on this matter.”
Subbarow praised Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong for taking a bold position, referring to Wong’s recent National Day Rally speech in which he described vaping as a serious drug issue that must be tightly regulated to safeguard the younger generation.
“CAP congratulates the Singapore Prime Minister for his courage in making this announcement,” Subbarow added. “It shows how seriously he values the future of his country’s youth.”
Singapore has announced plans to impose stricter penalties on vape users, while also offering rehabilitation and support to help addicts quit. - August 24, 2025
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