CNA938 Rewind - #TalkBack: What else can be done to stem the vaping problem, especially if drugs could be involved?
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Vape disposal bins at 23 CCs for users to surrender e-vaporisers without facing penalties
Find out what's new on ST website and app. The bins will be progressively placed in other locations, such as institutes of higher learning. SINGAPORE - Members of the public can throw away vapes in new bins installed within community centres around Singapore without fear of punishment. On July 25, the Ministry of Health, Health Sciences Authority (HSA) and People's Association launched the 'Bin The Vape' initiative. Bins have been placed at 23 community clubs (CCs) and one residents' network centre around the island, including in Punggol, Boon Lay, Mountbatten, Woodlands and Bishan. They will be progressively placed in other locations, such as at institutes of higher learning. The authorities noted that etomidate, a listed poison increasingly found in vapes here , will be classified as a Class C illegal drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act in the coming weeks. In a joint news release, the authorities said: 'In the meantime, those who are using e-vaporisers and especially consuming etomidate should give up their habit as soon as possible.' The initiative is meant to encourage vape users to quit before the law catches up with them. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. 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Members of the public can visit to locate the nearest bin. The red bin resembles a normal trash bin – but with posters of the initiative plastered on its front and top, promising a safe and confidential disposal of vapes. Its lid is secured with a lock, and a metal chain secures the bin to a pillar or other fixtures. A CCTV camera aimed at the bin deters theft of the disposed vapes and tampering. The media was invited to witness the installation of one such bin at Canberra Community Club on July 25. Canberra resident and retiree Kwan Kong Hua, 68, is not convinced, though, doubting that people who spent money on vapes would voluntarily dispose of their devices. Following the increased detection in Singapore of electronic vaporisers containing substances such as etomidate and other controlled drugs, Mr Kwan called for tougher enforcement efforts against vaping. The former delivery driver, who quit cigarette smoking about a decade ago as it affected his health, is especially concerned when he sees young vapers around the estate. Mr Kwan said: 'Sometimes, they take several puffs and stumble around unsteadily. Any kind of smoking is really harmful for their health.' Another resident, who gave his name only as Mr Adzhar, 24, knows people who vape. He said some may not give up vaping because they see it as a cheaper alternative to smoking cigarettes. Mr Adzhar, who is interning at a transport company, added: 'It's 50-50 (chance of people using the bin). There may also be people who throw their vapes to avoid being fined.' The idea for the bins was first adopted on Nov 18, 2023, by MacPherson Youth Network's 'Drop it, Stop it!' anti-vape campaign. It was co-organised with youth charity Bilby Community Development. Then MacPherson MP Tin Pei Ling had said the group worked with HSA and the Health Promotion Board (HPB) to waive vaping-related penalties for those who discarded their vapes. Sembawang GRC MP Ng Shi Xuan, who was then a grassroots leader in the MacPherson Youth Network, told The Straits Times on July 25 that the two-month campaign saw 70 individuals voluntarily surrender their vapes, exceeding the target of 50 people. Of the 70 who disposed of their vapes, 14 young people said they wanted to quit vaping but did not know how to begin, added Mr Ng. He said he was heartened to see the idea scaled up nationwide, and added: 'This showed us that with the right support, many are willing to take that first step. 'Don't wait until it's too late. Step forward and surrender your vape, the community is here to help you.' Mr Gopal Mahey, a senior counsellor at the Centre for Psychotherapy who works with young people who vape, said the bins could become bridges for those who need professional help. But he noted that the presence of CCTV cameras could trigger anxiety about being watched or identified, and some young people may fear the footage would be used against them. To address this, Mr Mahey said signs could be put up to reinforce confidentiality and encourage young people to speak to a trusted adult if they are struggling. Said the counsellor: 'It's also important to supplement physical interventions like bins with clear and strong messaging and assurance.' Those who need help to quit vaping can join HPB's I Quit programme by calling the QuitLine on 1800-438-2000. Participants need not worry about being prosecuted, as it does not presume they are using or have used vaping products. But those caught using or possessing such items will be prosecuted. Since July 21, HSA has extended the operating hours for its Tobacco Regulation Branch hotline on 6684-2036 or 6684-2037 to report vaping-related offences. The hotline now operates from 9am to 9pm daily, including on public holidays. HSA has also launched a new online portal to report vaping-related offences at If you have a story to share about vapes, e-mail us at stnewsdesk@
