By Yasmin Ramlan
SHAH ALAM, May 19 — The Selangor government is expected to finalise its decision on banning vape or e-cigarette products within the next two months.
State executive councillor for public health and the environment Jamaliah Jamaluddin said that as for now, they have held two meetings to discuss the matter, involving the Health Ministry (MOH), the Selangor Health Department (JKNS), and the local authorities.
“We are moving towards a ban, but we have to be cautious and comprehensive in our approach,” she told the press after the launch of Selangor Climate Adaptation Centre (SCAC) at the Concorde Hotel today.
[caption id="attachment_401337" align="alignright" width="410"]
State executive councillor for public health and the environment Jamaliah Jamaluddin speaks to the press after the launch of Selangor Climate Adaptation Centre (SCAC) at the Concorde Hotel in Shah Alam on May 19, 2025. — Picture by REMY ARIFIN/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
Jamaliah added that major challenges, including widespread online sales, unregulated or unknown brands, and informal production in residential homes, are among the topics discussed.
Previously, Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said a proposal to ban the sale of vape products and e-cigarettes in Selangor will be tabled during the State Legislative Assembly session, in which a report prior to any decision being made on the issue will be prepared.
The councillor raised the growing health concerns of vape usage, pointing out that the alarming reports of youth vaping near school premises and fatalities linked to vape use have further prompted urgent attention from the state.
“Vape is becoming a bigger problem, especially with more smokers switching to it. We need strong coordination to regulate and eventually control its use,” she said.
Last month, the state government announced that it would study a suggestion to ban e-cigarette sales.
Previously, Terengganu announced a ban on e-cigarette sales statewide starting August 1, while Johor has prohibited sales and licensing since 2016, with enforcement actions taken against violators.
Deputy Inspector-General Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said state administrations can ban the sale of e-cigarettes. He expressed concern that the sale of vapes could also lead to the abuse of new synthetic drugs.
