KUALA LUMPUR – Former health minister Tan Sri Dr. S. Subramaniam has thrown his full support behind the government’s move to impose a nationwide ban on vape products, calling them a “curse for the younger generation.”
Speaking to Scoop, Dr. Subramaniam said vaping has become a silent threat that is hooking young Malaysians into a dangerous habit under the guise of modern lifestyle trends.
“Vaping is nothing short of a curse for our youth. It is marketed as harmless, but in reality, it’s an addictive trap that destroys health, clouds judgement, and opens the door to even more harmful substances.
“These products are cleverly disguised with attractive flavours and gadgets, but what they really deliver is long-term damage to the lungs and overall well-being.
“We cannot stand by while another generation falls into this pit,” he said.
Dr. Subramaniam also warned that vaping has become a conduit for more serious problems beyond nicotine addiction.
“Vape devices today are not just nicotine carriers — they are increasingly being used to deliver illicit drugs. That makes them not only a public health hazard but also a criminal threat.
“When a product becomes a tool for both addiction and crime, there is no room for half-measures. A decisive, nationwide ban is the only responsible course of action.”
The Health Ministry is preparing to present an expert committee’s recommendations to the Cabinet for a nationwide ban on electronic cigarettes and vape products. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly
Ahmad has made it clear that it is “no longer a matter of if, but when” the ban will be enforced.
The proposed ban focuses heavily on open-system vape devices, which can be refilled and are easily tampered with to include banned substances.
Enforcement operations have already seized thousands of illicit vape products — with nearly 80 per cent of tested samples found to contain prohibited drugs such as methamphetamine or cannabinoids.
Several states have already acted ahead of the federal government. Terengganu and Perlis have implemented full bans, Johor has barred vape retail licensing since 2016, and Selangor is finalising its own proposal to align with the national ban.
Under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), effective October 2024, nicotine-containing e-liquids must be registered, sales to minors are prohibited, and advertising restrictions are enforced. — August 15, 2025