SHAH ALAM, 25 April - The Selangor State Government is currently conducting a thorough review on the possibility of implementing a ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes (vapes) within the state.

Selangor Public Health and Environment Executive Councillor, Jamaliah Jamaluddin, stated that a comprehensive meeting will be held soon involving the Office of the Selangor Chief Minister and the Selangor State Health Department (JKNS) to discuss the issue in detail.

“This meeting will also involve various relevant departments and agencies from both the Federal and State Government levels, including Local Authorities (PBT), to ensure that all perspectives and potential implications are carefully considered before any decision is made,” she said in a statement today.

Jamaliah noted that the Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM) and JKNS play crucial roles in overseeing the regulation of smoking products, including registration, labelling, packaging, sales, and the enforcement of smoking and vaping restrictions in designated no-smoking areas.

She emphasized that these responsibilities are aligned with the provisions of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 [Act 852].

In addition, Jamaliah clarified that business licenses for the sale of electronic devices in Selangor are regulated by the local authorities (PBT).

“At present, there is no specific license issued for the sale of electronic cigarettes or vape liquids in the state,” she added.

She further stated that the upcoming discussions are expected to include the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) to gain a holistic view, particularly from enforcement, legal, and socio-economic perspectives.

According to her, the Selangor State Government treats the matter with utmost seriousness, and any decision made will be based on in-depth research and analysis.

“It will not only take into account public health interests but also assess the effectiveness of enforcement and the overall well-being of the community.

“I acknowledge and appreciate the concerns expressed by various parties, including the recommendations made by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police. We are committed to evaluating this matter thoroughly and inclusively,” she stressed.

On April 17, Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, reportedly suggested that the state government could take steps to ban the sale of vape, which he claimed is increasingly associated with the abuse of new synthetic drugs.