Should Malaysia regulate vaping products instead of banning them?

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Malaysia Should Regulate Vaping Products Rather Than Implement a Complete Ban, According to Industry Association

The Vape Consumers Association Malaysia (VCAM) is advocating for the Ministry of Health to reconsider the Tobacco and Smoking Control Bill and instead establish regulations for the sale of vaping products. VCAM argues that such regulations would ensure that vape products are sold safely and legally, exclusively to adult consumers. The association believes that a ban on vaping would eliminate a safer alternative for smokers, potentially hindering their efforts to quit nicotine.
VCAM Proposes Regulation for Safe and Legal Adult Access

VCAM has called for the Ministry of Health to implement laws that regulate the sale of vaping products, rather than proceeding with a complete ban. The association contends that regulatory measures would guarantee that these products are only accessible to adult consumers through safe and legal channels. This approach, according to VCAM, would prevent the uncontrolled spread of products and ensure compliance with age restrictions.
Vaping as a Cessation Tool for Adult Smokers

The association highlights that vaping products can serve as a valuable cessation tool for adult smokers seeking to quit nicotine. VCAM suggests that by providing regulated access to vaping, smokers who wish to transition away from traditional cigarettes have a viable, and according to them, safer alternative. Banning these products, they argue, would remove this option, potentially forcing smokers into abrupt cessation methods like "quitting cold turkey," which has been demonstrated to be less effective.
Concerns Over Unregulated Market and Industry Value

Despite the significant presence of the vape industry in Malaysia, there has been a notable lack of regulation governing the sale and use of related products. A 2021 study indicated that the local vape industry held an estimated value of RM2.7 billion, capturing a substantial 42% share of the tobacco market. VCAM expresses concern that without a regulatory framework, consumers might seek unregulated sources, which poses greater risks.
Generational End-Game Proposal Shift and VCAM's Stance

The government's initial generational end-game (GEG) proposal aimed to ban the sale of smoking products to individuals born after 2005. However, this was later revised to target those born after 2007, a move the Health Minister cited as allowing more time for education, planning, and enforcement. VCAM's call for regulation aligns with their emphasis that individuals under 18 should be strictly prohibited from both buying and selling vape products, a point they believe can be effectively managed through a regulated system.

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Should Malaysia regulate vaping products instead of banning them?

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