The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has urged the government to expedite the enactment of laws and regulations on vapes and atomized goods, which pose serious public health risks and regulatory loopholes. The association is particularly concerned about the increase in vape stalls around educational institutions and their impact on youths and blames the decision to remove nicotine from the Poisons Act.
Malaysia urges government
The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has asked the government to speed up the enactment of regulations on vapes and atomized goods. The July 1 Sun reported.
Dr. Azizan Abdul Aziz is said to have said that delays in-laws. Tegulations have led to significant public health risks and have been exploited by the vape industry.
In a statement, she noted: “We know that the bills for these laws and regulations have been finalized since the end of last year, but so far nothing has been heard. The government must explain the reasons for the delay.”
Azizan said that from 2015 to last year. Parliament reported a worrying 111 cases of unusual vape liquid exposure involving minors, among others.
Another major issue is the proliferation of mobile vape kiosks around educational institutions.
“These kiosks not only sell vape brands but also promote vapes as a lifestyle to young people. Leading to early nicotine addiction and normalizing vapes.”
“The aggressive marketing of vapes as a fashionable and desirable lifestyle is worrying as it could foster long-term addiction among impressionable young people.”
Furthermore, she acknowledged that it would be irresponsible to remove nicotine from the Poisons Act without subsequent regulation. This decision seems to favor profits more than public health.
The Global Tobacco Industry Intervention Index 2023 notes that the cigarette and vape industries are still well-known in Malaysian policymaking. Often under the pretext of economic benefits.
Referring to Azizan.
“Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in this industry although their products are harmful. The activities are used to portray a positive overall image and supported by the community and policymakers.”
Azizan also warned that the surge in vape smoking among youth could complicate future non-communicable disease (NCD) management. Thereby increasing pressure on the healthcare industry.
She called on MPs to prioritize the health of young people by putting pressure on them. The government and demanding that they act quickly.
