Strict enforcement of Act 852 crucial to curb teen vaping in Malaysia
Speaking at the 2025 Harm Reduction Roundtable Conference, Lukanisman stressed the government's commitment to enforcing the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852). The law strictly prohibits the sale of vape and cigarette products to individuals under 18.
'There has been pressure from industry players to relax regulations, including product display rules and shelf closures during inspections. However, the Federal government remains firm on Act 852 to prevent underage sales,' he said.
The ministry is currently prioritizing enforcement against illegal sales and misleading advertisements while educating both traders and consumers. Lukanisman highlighted ongoing awareness programs in schools, universities, and communities to address nicotine addiction among youth.
He also revealed that Kedah and Terengganu have proposed banning vape sales or withholding licenses for vape outlets. 'The ministry is open to a full ban if supported by scientific evidence and public backing,' he added.
Furthermore, tax revenue from vape sales will be reinvested into healthcare, as announced by the Prime Minister in Parliament.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Star
6 hours ago
- The Star
Ignorance of no-smoking sign rule is no excuse, says Melaka exco man
MELAKA: Ignorance is no defence when it comes to complying with the mandatory display of no-smoking signs at designated premises, says a Melaka exco member. State health, human resources and unity committee chairman Datuk Ngwe Hee Sem said he is fed up with receiving calls from people seeking to have compound notices for non-compliance withdrawn. He said many of these calls come from community leaders and politicians claiming that the people in their respective areas were unaware of the legal obligation, despite widespread advocacy and media coverage. ALSO READ: Act 852 receives positive reaction from community but more awareness needed 'Most of the time, these callers say they didn't know the signs had to be displayed, but this is not a valid excuse. "This requirement has been widely highlighted in the media, and all these people had to do was (read about it)," he told The Star on Wednesday (July 2). Ngwe said that the obligation applies to all workplaces, including government and private buildings, food outlets, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, convenience stores, public vehicles, and self-service premises such as laundrettes. "The signs must comply with specifications set by the Health Ministry. "This obligation falls under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health (No-Smoking Warning Signs) Regulations 2024," he said. Ngwe noted that the regulations require signs of standard size and design to be placed at visible locations such as main entrances and areas frequented by customers and guests. "The signs must also clearly prohibit both smoking and the use of electronic cigarettes,' he said. Ngwe said full enforcement of this regulation started on April 1 under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024. ALSO READ: Business owners, public laud smoking ban at laundromats He said that from January to May, 5,828 premises were inspected across Melaka. Enforcement officers issued 222 compound notices totalling RM55,000 to premises that failed to display the signs according to the latest specifications. This number comprised 116 workplace premises, 102 food outlets, and four laundrettes. 'If any premises are found not complying with this legal duty, the individual or owner may be issued a compound notice or face court action that could result in a fine not exceeding RM5,000,' he added. Ngwe urged all premises operators to act swiftly to ensure compliance and avoid unnecessary penalties, stressing that the law exists to protect public health, not to punish.
The Sun
6 hours ago
- The Sun
Ministry ensures funding for Malaysian Media Council soon
PUTRAJAYA: The Communications Ministry is working to secure funding for the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) as soon as possible, according to Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. A follow-up meeting with the 12-member founding board will be held to discuss council-related matters. Fahmi confirmed that an initial online meeting had taken place, with plans for an in-person session soon. 'As some representatives are outside the Klang Valley, we will arrange a suitable time for all to attend,' he said during a press conference. The MMC founding board includes four representatives each from media companies, associations, practitioners, and non-media members. The council aims to strengthen media governance and professionalism in Malaysia. Separately, Fahmi said the Cabinet was briefed on Op Kesan 4.0, an enforcement operation by the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) to prevent profiteering following the revised Sales and Service Tax (SST) implementation. He urged the public to report unreasonable price hikes, assuring that KPDN would act swiftly. On public health concerns, Fahmi noted that the Health Ministry (MOH) has been instructed to monitor the ongoing Southwest Monsoon, which brings extreme heat until September. The public is advised to heed MetMalaysia's weather warnings and MOH's health advisories.
The Sun
a day ago
- The Sun
New medical law reforms take effect in Malaysia to boost governance
PUTRAJAYA: The Medical (Amendment) Act 2024 and Medical (Amendment) Regulations 2025 officially came into force today, marking a major step in the Ministry of Health's (MOH) push for improved governance and transparency in the medical sector. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that the amendments create a structured legal framework for specialist recognition, particularly for those trained under the Parallel Pathway and local Master of Medicine programmes. 'It establishes a clear and consistent pathway for the recognition and registration of specialists trained through the Parallel Pathway and the local Master of Medicine programme. These changes also clarify the roles and responsibilities of the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) in ensuring that all specialist qualifications are evaluated fairly and transparently,' he said. The reforms also aim to strengthen the MMC's structure, ensuring balanced representation that reflects the current healthcare workforce, especially in the public sector. Dzulkefly highlighted that the amendments provide a solid legal foundation for local specialist training programmes, ensuring structured recognition and administration. This move resolves uncertainties for specialists awaiting registration, allowing them to serve the public more effectively. 'It also ensures equitable access to high-quality specialist care and strengthens public confidence, as all specialists serving in the healthcare system are held to the same competency standards regardless of the training route,' he added. The minister reaffirmed MOH's commitment to stakeholder engagement and continuous reforms to maintain a resilient and inclusive healthcare system. The amendments follow the Cabinet's approval on June 5 last year to revise the Medical Act 1971, addressing specialist registration issues. Parliament passed the amendments on July 17, 2024.
