Kedah’s Chief Minister announces a phased approach to ban vape sales by 2025, citing concerns over vapes being used for drug consumption and related crimes.
The Malaysian state of Kedah is targeting a complete ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes or vapes by 2025 at the latest, as a measure to control drug abuse. Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md. Nor announced the plan, stating the state government will not take drastic immediate action to avoid potential lawsuits, similar to those faced after closing lottery outlets.
Phased Approach to Tackle Drug-Laced Vapes
Sanusi explained that the move follows concerns presented at a Drug Eradication Action Council meeting, which highlighted the latest trend of drug consumption through vaping. He mentioned that some drugs are being added to vape liquids, making them easily distributable and shareable. “One drop costing RM10 can be added to vape liquid… vape [devices] can be kept for a long time in a pocket before being shared with up to 10 people,” he stated, contrasting it with traditional cannabis use.
The initial steps will include prohibiting vape sales at shop counters and subsequently not renewing business permits for vape sales once they expire. “We hope that by 2025 this matter can be resolved so that we can start the following year with a new atmosphere,” Sanusi said. He added that out of Kedah’s 2.21 million population, around 12,000 are involved in drug abuse, which often leads to other crimes like theft to fund their habit. The state government is serious about tackling this issue, which he described as a “sore and cancer” in society.
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