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Vape Group Warns New Legislation Could Lead to Increase in Smoking Rates

Vape Group Warns New Legislation Could Lead to Increase in Smoking Rates

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 8 – The Malaysian Vapers Alliance (MVA) has expressed serious concerns regarding the potential repercussions of the forthcoming Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) on Malaysia’s vaping community.

In a statement released today, MVA cautioned that the introduction of excessively stringent regulations may inadvertently push former smokers, who have successfully transitioned to vaping, back towards traditional cigarettes.

According to a recent survey conducted by MVA, a significant 73.7% of vapers were previously cigarette smokers. The organization warned that treating vaping products in the same manner as cigarettes—such as banning their display—could undermine public health initiatives aimed at reducing the prevalence of smoking.

Khairil Azizi Khairuddin, President of MVA, underscored the critical need for the new legislation to clearly differentiate between vaping and smoking.

“Implementing harsh regulations without acknowledging the differences between vaping and smoking could lead many vapers, who have successfully quit using traditional tobacco, to relapse into smoking. This reversal not only jeopardizes their health but also threatens the progress Malaysia has made in lowering smoking rates,” Khairil stated.

He urged the government to consider a more balanced regulatory approach that acknowledges vaping’s potential role in harm reduction and supports those who have chosen to quit smoking through vaping.

The MVA also highlighted that 80.1% of vapers made the switch specifically to quit smoking, further emphasizing the importance of sensible regulations.

“The Malaysian Vapers Alliance calls on the Ministry of Health (MOH) to ensure that the final version of Act 852 includes fair and informed regulations that distinguish vaping from smoking. We believe that such a balanced approach can protect public health while preventing vapers from returning to cigarettes,” added Khairil.

MVA reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the rights of vapers and pledged to continue engaging with key stakeholders on this pressing issue.

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