Should illicit markets be an excuse to block the Tobacco Control Bill?

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Illicit Markets Should Not Be Used to Block Tobacco Control Bill

Illicit markets for cigarettes and vape products should not serve as a reason for Members of Parliament to vote against the Tobacco and Smoking Control Bill. The bill has garnered agreement from key stakeholders, including non-governmental organisations and vape operators, and its passage is framed as a crucial step for public health. The Ministry of Health has committed to actively combating illicit markets through dedicated enforcement efforts.
Stakeholder Agreement on the Bill

The Tobacco and Smoking Control Bill has achieved consensus among significant stakeholders, encompassing non-governmental organisations and operators within the vape industry. This broad agreement underscores the collaborative effort behind the proposed legislation, which has been in development for a decade.
Public Health Rationale for the Bill

The primary objective of the bill is to safeguard public health, particularly by protecting younger generations from smoking and addiction. The proposed Generation End Game (GEG) provision aims to prevent individuals born after 2005 from developing smoking habits, with the overarching goal of reducing the national smoking rate to below five percent by 2040.
Malaysia's Potential Global Leadership

If enacted, Malaysia would become the first country globally to implement a law that prohibits smoking and the ownership of smoking products, including vapes, for individuals born after 2005. This pioneering legislation reflects a commitment to a future generation free from tobacco-related harms.
Commitment to Combatting Illicit Trade

Acknowledging the existence of illicit markets for cigarettes and vape products, the Ministry of Health has pledged to address this issue through robust enforcement strategies. These measures will be supported by dedicated enforcement teams tasked with tackling the illicit trade.

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Should illicit markets be an excuse to block the Tobacco Control Bill?

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