Cover image via Devan Manuel/Malay MailWhile Malaysia has not issued a nationwide ban on vaping, several state governments have taken matters into their own hands by regulating or prohibiting the sale of vapes and electronic cigarettes
Image via Danial Saad/New Straits Times
According to the New Straits Times, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad explained that the federal government has chosen to regulate vaping, rather than impose a full ban.
However, state governments have been encouraged to stop issuing licences to businesses that sell vapes and e-cigarettes.
Here's a breakdown of where each state currently stands:
– Johor
The first state to take action, Johor stopped issuing licences for the sale of vapes, vape liquids, and e-cigarettes as early as 1 January 2016, following a decree by Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar.
– Kelantan
Vaping products have been banned in all business premises since 2016.
– Terengganu
A statewide ban on vape sales will come into effect on 1 August 2025.
– Perlis
Similarly, Perlis will begin enforcing its ban on vapes and e-cigarettes starting 1 August 2025.
– Kedah
While not yet fully banned, Kedah will not renew licences for vape-related businesses and is aiming for a complete ban by 2026.
– Selangor
As of May 2025, the state is still deliberating on a potential ban.
– Penang
The state government has expressed openness to banning vape sales but has yet to hold formal discussions.
– Pahang
No official ban is in place, but in November 2024, Pahang Sultan Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah called for one.
– Other states — Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Perak, Sabah, Sarawak, and the Federal Territories — have not made any statements regarding vape sales.
