Cover image via Pawel Czerwinski/UnsplashThe Selangor state government has instructed local councils to remove all physical and digital advertisements promoting vape products, including billboards and other promotional materials
According to the New Straits Times, state Public Health and Environment Committee chairperson Jamaliah Jamaluddin said the measure was decided while the state deliberates on a potential full ban on vape product sales.
She explained that this move aligns with the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2023 (Act 852), which prohibits any form of advertising, promotion, or sponsorship involving e-cigarette products.
Jamaliah said the decision followed a coordination meeting she chaired to explore the proposed vape ban. The meeting examined key concerns such as enforcement challenges, licensing issues, legal implications, and monitoring mechanisms.
Image via Effendy Rashid/New Straits Times
She highlighted a disturbing rise in vaping among teens, citing a 2022 survey that found that 14.9% of boys aged 13 to 17 are vape users
"These statistics are alarming and highlight the urgent need for proactive state-level action," she said.
She added that the discussion also touched on the challenge of online vape sales, which are difficult to regulate and often serve as the main access point for teenagers.
The state's Public Health Standing Committee will hold a follow-up meeting soon to evaluate policy options, before a final proposal is submitted to the state executive council for a decision
"The state government wants to ensure that every policy introduced takes into account its impact on public health and future generations," Jamaliah said.
She said the state also welcomed support from parents, schools, civil society groups, and agencies at both the state and federal levels in tackling this issue.
