Singapore has one of the toughest approaches to vaping in the world. The city-state has banned not only the sale of e-cigarettes and vape products but also their possession and use.
The government treats vaping on par with drug offences in many respects, regularly enforcing strict penalties for those caught importing, selling, or using these products without authorization.
Singapore’s policy has been praised by some public health advocates for its firm commitment to reducing nicotine dependence and protecting young people from the harms of vaping.
However, critics have warned that a blanket prohibition may push the trade underground and create enforcement challenges similar to those seen in other prohibition contexts.
Malaysia’s Emerging Policy Shift
Malaysia is now moving in a similar direction, signaling a significant shift from its previous regulatory stance.
Historically, Malaysia regulated sales, advertising, and packaging of vape and e-cigarette products under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024, which prohibited sales to minors and set rules for labeling and point-of-sale displays.
But federal and state health authorities have increasingly expressed concern about the rising use of vaping, particularly among youth, and reports of unregulated products that may contain harmful substances. These worries have fueled proposals for a nationwide ban on vapes.
Plans and Timelines
In early 2026 the Malaysian Health Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, confirmed that the Ministry of Health is aiming to implement a phased vape ban, with initial steps focused on banning open pod systems that can be refilled and are widely misused.
The move is intended to curb not only nicotine addiction but also the potential for these devices to be used with unregulated or dangerous synthetic substances.
This initial ban on open system devices is expected to roll out this year as part of broader efforts under the 2024 public health act.
Following this, the government aims to extend restrictions to cover all types of vaping products. The health ministry has stated it will not compromise on enforcing the act as part of its moral responsibility to protect public health.
The total ban still needs formal approval and will be brought to the Cabinet for deliberation. According to the health minister, the proposal to fully prohibit the sale and use of all vaping products has yet to be tabled.
But the government has made clear that it is no longer debating whether to ban vaping but when and how the policy will be implemented. Expert review committees and memorandums are being prepared to support the Cabinet decision.
Public Health Motivations
The push for stricter controls is driven by rising concerns about public health. Health officials have pointed to increasing cases of vape-related injuries and illnesses, including those linked to chemically adulterated liquids that may be inhaled by unsuspecting users.
The projected healthcare burden of treating vape-associated conditions is significant, with estimates of costs due to related illnesses rising sharply in the coming years.
Various health advocacy groups, including the Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement, have publicly supported a complete ban, arguing that it will protect younger generations from addiction and long-term harm.
In addition, some state governments have already taken action independent of federal policy, with places like Johor and Kedah banning the sale of vape products and others planning similar restrictions.
These local measures reflect worries about youth uptake and the use of vaping devices for consuming harmful substances, and they have added momentum to federal discussions about a comprehensive ban.
Challenges
However, Malaysia’s potential ban has sparked strong debate. Industry groups warn that a total prohibition could drive the trade underground, creating a black market of unregulated products that may be even more dangerous for consumers.
Malaysia’s vape industry has grown into a multi-billion ringgit sector, supporting thousands of jobs and generating tax revenue.
Retailers and manufacturers argue that targeted regulations and taxation would be more effective than an outright ban, allowing safer products to remain in the market while reducing youth access.
Critics of the ban also point to experiences in other countries, including Singapore, where strict prohibition has not entirely eliminated demand and has sometimes had unintended consequences.
Legal experts have noted that abrupt federal action could also face challenges, especially given that the existing public health act already regulates vape products and local governments have enacted divergent policies.
Harmonizing state bans with a national prohibition will require careful legal navigation to avoid loopholes and ensure enforceability across the country.
Looking Ahead
As Malaysia moves toward finalizing its policy, the debate reflects a tension between public health priorities, economic considerations, and lessons drawn from regional neighbors particularly Singapore.
While Singapore’s strict stance serves as a model for those advocating prohibition, the Malaysian government appears intent on tailoring its approach to local conditions, starting with a phased ban and broad consultation.
The coming months will likely see continued discussion, with the government balancing enforcement, industry impact, and public health outcomes as it charts a course that could reshape Malaysia’s vaping landscape.
