Industry Involvement Crucial Before Enforcing Vaping Regulations

KUALA LUMPUR, August 21, 2024 – The Malaysian Ministry of Health recently announced that the Smoking Product Control for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) is expected to be enforced by October at the latest. However, the industry has yet to receive detailed information about it. As with previous announcements, the industry often becomes the last to be informed about any developments regarding Act 852 and remains confused about the actual implications of this act once it is enforced.

According to Rizani Zakaria, President of the Malaysian Vape Industry Advocacy (MVIA), this lack of information has raised concerns among industry players. They feel neglected and have not received sufficient guidance to prepare for any upcoming changes.

Industry involvement crucial before enforcing vaping regulations

“Clear regulations are urgently needed to guide the industry in the right direction. This will help generate a larger economy and benefit all, including the industry and the nation’s revenue.”

“Without reasonable regulations, the industry risks facing various unwanted challenges. However, the upcoming regulations need to be balanced. For example, the proposed ban on product displays may not be the best solution, as it could have more significant negative impacts on the industry.”

Reasonable laws without strict prohibitions, such as the ban on displays, can drive the industry to become a competitive economic entity and avoid unwanted incidents such as the misuse of illegal substances in vape products.

Rizani added that incidents like the ‘magic mushroom’ highlight the urgent need for clear and comprehensive regulations. Well-planned regulations not only guide the industry but also prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.

Therefore, Rizani mentioned that the Government should consider the recommendations, opinions, and economic situations of industry players before making any final decisions regarding the law.

“There is still time for the Government to gather all industry players in an engagement session and listen to their views on the best mechanisms to implement regulatory laws to benefit all parties.”

“Strict laws, such as the proposed ban on product displays, may not solve the problem of illegal sales or prevent the possession of products among teenagers. Instead, it will only harm an industry currently valued at RM3.48 million, which also contributes to government revenue. If more users turn to the black market, controlling access to products containing illegal substances will become more difficult,” he said.

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