E-cigarette liquids legal but strictly regulated
In a statement issued yesterday, the ministry responded to recent media reports about a company that had been granted an interim manufacturing licence to produce e-cigarette devices using nicotine-infused liquids or gels.
The ministry said decisions related to the importation, manufacturing and distribution of such liquids are 'collectively made by various government agencies'.
It clarified that the issuance of manufacturing licences falls under the purview of the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry via the Malaysian Investment Development Authority, as provided for under the Industrial Coordination Act.
'The importation, manufacturing and distribution of electronic cigarette liquids in the local market are regulated under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act,' the statement said.
According to Section 2 of the Act, these liquids are defined as smoking substances, namely products containing any combination of substances such as nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerol and triethylene glycol.
The ministry also noted that regulatory oversight involves multiple government agencies, including the Customs Department, which monitors the import of raw materials; Sirim, which tests devices for safety compliance; and local authorities that enforce licensing by-laws.
For its part, the ministry retains enforcement powers to monitor the content and emissions of all types of smoking products.
'The Health Ministry is committed to ensuring maximum enforcement and control to safeguard public health and safety,' the statement added.
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