E-CIGARETTES are an ever-growing phenomenon with increasing recognition and acceptance globally. The Malaysian Perception of Smoking and Vaping Survey states that a clear majority (69%) of smokers want to see legislation that would allow for the distribution and sale of e-cigarettes as a viable alternative to help them quit smoking regular cigarettes.
However, the much discussed and mooted Generational End Game proposes that both smoking and vaping be banned for those born after 2007.
E-cigarettes have proven to be effective in reducing smoking rates in countries like New Zealand, the UK and Japan, hence why some believe regulating vape and vaping products separately from cigarettes is crucial, as the smoking of tobacco and associated chemicals does most of the harm.
Exploring this topic with host Shazmin Shamsuddin on Beyond Breakfast is Professor Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh - Chairman of the Malaysia Society for Harm Reduction (MSHR), Tengku Aslahuddin Ja’afar, the President of Vape Consumer Association of Malaysia (VCAM) and Balan Kashmir, a local artist and Harm Reduction advocate.
We weigh the risks and effectiveness of vaping as a smoking cessation tool along with the long-term health effects of using vaping devices, its impact on society and youth, and concerns about addiction.
We discuss the potential challenges or unintended consequences of over-regulating vaping products, such as potential limitations on individual autonomy or freedom of choice, and explore how vaping rights can be effectively advocated for and protected, while still taking into account the potential health risks and other concerns associated with vaping products.
Can education and public awareness campaigns be used to support both vaping rights and developing responsible vaping behaviour? Can negative public perception be flipped to understand and accommodate those with nicotine addictions to successfully wean themselves off potentially more harmful substances found in cigarettes? We explore this and more. – The Vibes, July 6, 2023
* The Vibes does not advocate smoking or vaping. This discussion is to understand the importance of proper legislation in the context of the larger debate surrounding the potential inclusion of nicotine in the Poisons Act.
