The Selangor government is currently refining its proposal to ban the sale of electronic cigarette (vape) products in the state, with input from industry stakeholders being actively sought to ensure a balanced approach.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the state administration is waiting for feedback and counter-proposals from vape business operators and other stakeholders before finalising any regulatory action.
“This is to safeguard public health without disproportionately affecting entrepreneurs and workers whose livelihoods depend on the industry.
“These entrepreneurs have employees and families to support. But as I’ve said before, our priority remains the well-being of the community, especially the younger generation,” Amirudin said.
He also voiced concern about the potential knock-on effects of substance misuse, including the abuse of mushrooms or marijuana, even though such cases remain limited at present.
Amirudin highlighted that the State Public Health and Environment Committee, led by chairman Jamaliah Jamaludin, is currently preparing a comprehensive policy paper that will form the basis of the state’s regulatory direction on e-cigarette sales.
“All views are being consolidated to ensure the implementation of well-rounded policy guidelines,” he said, stressing that the government’s approach would factor in economic, social and geographical considerations.
Amirudin pointed out that Selangor’s proximity to Kuala Lumpur (KL) poses a unique enforcement challenge compared to East Coast states that have already announced bans.
“For instance, if we impose a sales ban in Selangor, people can still easily purchase these products in KL where might just be 15 minutes away,” he noted. “We need to consider these cross-border dynamics before making a final decision.”
To date, Perlis, Terengganu, and Kedah have implemented state-wide bans on the sale of vape products. Selangor’s cautious approach reflects the complexity of imposing similar regulations in a more urban and interconnected region.
