KUALA LUMPUR – The Health Ministry has been urged to include vape industry players in discussions on developing rules and regulations, in light of the government’s plans to table new rules to regulate the sector.
In a statement, Malaysian Vape Industry Advocacy president Rizani Zakaria said while the industry supports the move to regulate the vape industry, engagement with industry players is key to ensure that the suggested laws are feasible.
“When the previous government tabled the Control of Tobacco Product and Smoking Bill 2022, it received brickbats from not only industry players, but also economic experts, health professionals, and MPs.
“This time, the government must make sure to hold discussions with those in the industry and consider views from all sides to ensure that the laws are suitable for implementation.”
Lamenting that vape sector figures have yet to meet with representatives from the ministry since the formation of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s government, he stressed that such meetings are necessary for the industry to establish a mutual direction.
“Until now, we have not been involved in any discussions or given any information regarding details of the regulation.
“The industry lacks clear details in the permitted nicotine levels, prohibited substances in vape liquid and gels, as well as product specifications permitted for sales and marketing.
“This matter cannot be delayed any longer. Discussions must be held immediately so that hasty decisions, which could impact the industry and its players, are not made.”
On Tuesday, Anwar stated his commitment to ensuring that the bill will be tabled in Parliament this year, after the ministry has reviewed aspects of it with MPs.
The Malaysian Society for Harm Reduction had subsequently called on the government to amend existing regulatory laws for vape products as it will take some time for the new law to come into force.
It was previously announced that nicotine in gels and liquids used in these products were removed from the list of controlled substances under the Poisons Act 1952, a move which healthcare groups have described as regressive.
MSHR also said that the removal of the substance from the list has led to a gap in the law that could see vulnerable groups, such as children, take up vaping. – The Vibes, April 6, 2023
