Should Malaysia ban vapes due to new synthetic drug risks?

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A Total Ban on Vapes is Advocated in Malaysia Due to New Synthetic Drug Risks

The emergence of "Piu Piu," a new synthetic drug mixed into electronic cigarette liquids, has led to calls for a complete ban on vapes in Malaysia. This synthetic substance, a combination of fentanyl and psychoactive chemicals, has been observed to induce severe intoxication, rendering users in a state described as "zombie-like." The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) perceive this trend as a significant deviation from the intended use of vaping devices, highlighting their exploitation by drug trafficking syndicates as a method to evade detection.
"Piu Piu" Drug Detected in Vape Liquids

A concerning development in Malaysia is the detection of a new synthetic drug, dubbed "Piu Piu," being incorporated into the liquids used in electronic cigarettes. This substance is reportedly a mixture of fentanyl, a potent opioid, and other psychoactive chemicals. The PDRM has identified this as a critical issue, noting that the drug's effects can lead to severe intoxication and a disoriented, "zombie-like" state in users.
Vaping Abused by Drug Syndicates

The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) views the current vaping landscape as a significant departure from its original purpose, with drug trafficking syndicates exploiting the devices as a new modus operandi. The ease with which "Piu Piu" can be mixed into vape liquids facilitates its distribution and circumvents traditional drug detection methods. This misuse transforms a product intended for nicotine delivery into a vehicle for dangerous synthetic substances.
Call for a Complete Ban on Vapes

In response to these escalating risks, the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, has advocated for a total ban on vape usage in Malaysia. He emphasized that vaping has become a source of concern, particularly among teenagers, and stressed the necessity of early intervention to curb this problem. Ayob Khan pointed to the example of other countries that have already implemented bans, suggesting Malaysia should follow suit with the political will to eradicate the issue.
Jurisdictional Limitations and Ongoing Enforcement

While the PDRM is actively monitoring and conducting operations against vape retail outlets to combat the spread of "Piu Piu," the authority to implement a complete ban on vape usage does not rest solely with the police. The matter also falls under the jurisdiction of other ministries, notably the Ministry of Health. The PDRM's Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department will continue its surveillance and enforcement activities to address the ongoing threat posed by these synthetic drugs in vape products.

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Should Malaysia ban vapes due to new synthetic drug risks?

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