The Malaysian state of Kedah will phase out the sale of electronic cigarettes (vapes) by not renewing existing business licenses, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor announced. The decision stems from concerns that vape devices are being misused for consuming synthetic drugs.
Gradual Ban Planned to Avoid Legal Issues, Full Prohibition by Next Year
Muhammad Sanusi stated that discussions at the state-level Drug Eradication Action Council highlighted the exploitation of vapes for inhaling liquid synthetic drugs. "Preventing vape sales is one way to curb drug abuse," he said. However, he noted that an immediate, complete ban is not feasible due to potential legal challenges from current license holders. "Existing licenses must expire first," he explained, citing advice regarding legal loopholes that could lead to lawsuits.
The Kedah state government aims to achieve a full ban on vape sales, including in convenience stores, by next year, once all current licenses have naturally expired and are not renewed. This move follows a similar decision by the neighboring state of Perlis, which will ban vape sales from August 1st based on a religious fatwa. Kedah will also continue to intensify its anti-drug efforts at the district level.
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