Malaysia to phase in full ban on sale of electronic cigarettes and vapes

THE Federal Government of Malaysia is preparing to implement a full ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes and vaping products, starting with a phased prohibition of open-system devices before extending it to all vape-related products.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad confirmed that the move is part of broader efforts to address the misuse of such products, which are increasingly seen as a public health concern.

“This will be carried out in phases, starting with the ban on open systems, and eventually covering all forms of vape products,” said Dr Dzulkefly, who is also the Member of Parliament for Kuala Selangor.

Although no specific timeline was provided for the complete implementation, Dr Dzulkefly stated that preliminary discussions have been held between the Ministry of Health (MoH) and key government bodies.

“These discussions have involved the Ministry of Finance, Royal Malaysian Customs Department, Ministry of Domestic Trade, Ministry of Home Affairs through the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority, and the Legal Adviser’s Office,” he said in a written reply to the Dewan Negara.

He added that the outcome of these deliberations, along with recommendations for implementation, would be presented to the Cabinet for policy approval. This endorsement would serve as the foundation for a nationwide prohibition on the sale of electronic cigarettes and vapes.

Dr Dzulkefly was responding to a question from Senator Baharuddin Ahmad regarding the government’s readiness to prohibit vape sales, as already practised by several Malaysian states, to protect the public from harmful health consequences.

The Minister also expressed strong support for the actions taken by six state governments – Johor, Kelantan, Terengganu, Perlis, Kedah, and Pahang – which have opted not to issue or renew retail vape licences through their respective local authorities.

“This is a proactive measure that aligns with the national public health agenda,” he said.

The move reflects a growing national consensus on the need for tighter controls on vaping and follows increased scrutiny of unregulated vape products, particularly those marketed to younger consumers. - September 10, 2025