Indonesia’s National Narcotics Agency (BNN) is advocating for a nationwide vape ban after laboratory tests revealed widespread illicit substances, including synthetic marijuana and methamphetamine, in vape liquids.
The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) of Indonesia has formally proposed a ban on vaping across the country, citing extensive misuse of vape liquids for illicit drug consumption. Laboratory tests conducted by the BNN on hundreds of samples confirmed the presence of synthetic marijuana, etomidate, and methamphetamine, leading to the conclusion that a ban is the most effective measure to curb drug abuse and protect public health.
BNN’s Findings: Vape Liquids as a Conduit for Illicit Drugs
The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) obtained these critical findings through rigorous laboratory tests on hundreds of vape liquid samples circulating within the community. The results revealed a disturbing pattern of misuse:
- Synthetic Marijuana: 11 samples tested positive for synthetic marijuana.
- Etomidate: 23 samples contained etomidate, a Schedule II narcotic and anesthetic not for recreational consumption.
- Methamphetamine: One sample was found to contain methamphetamine.
BNN Head Suyudi Ario confirmed these findings during a public meeting with Commission III of the House of Representatives (DPR) on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. He stated, “It’s a big hope for the BNN if vaping can be banned in Indonesia. Because vaping has been proven to be misused as a means of consuming illicit substances.”
The Rationale for a Nationwide Ban
Based on these conclusive findings, the BNN asserts that a comprehensive ban on vaping is the optimal strategy to minimize drug use. Suyudi explained that prohibiting vapes would significantly reduce the circulation of etomidate and other dangerous substances, particularly as unscrupulous individuals exploit vape liquids to introduce new psychoactive substances (NPS) into the community. The BNN has identified at least 175 types of psychoactive substances currently in circulation that pose severe health risks.
Regional Precedent: ASEAN Countries’ Stance
Indonesia would not be an outlier in implementing such a ban. Suyudi highlighted that several other ASEAN countries have already taken a firm stance against vaping. He specifically mentioned Vietnam, Thailand, Brunei, Laos, and Singapore as nations that have implemented similar prohibitions, underscoring a regional consensus on the perceived risks of vaping in the context of drug abuse.
A Proactive Public Health Measure
The BNN’s proposal reflects a proactive public health measure aimed at preventing the widespread misuse of vaping technology for illicit drug consumption. While the economic implications of such a ban would be significant, the agency prioritizes the mitigation of drug abuse and the protection of uninformed individuals from unknowingly consuming dangerous psychotropic substances. The move aligns Indonesia with a growing number of Southeast Asian nations that view a vape ban as a necessary step to safeguard their populations from emerging drug threats.
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