Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad announces Malaysia’s full enforcement of the Public Health (Control of Smoking Product) Act 2024 (Act 852) to address rising e-cigarette usage, especially among youth.
Act Overview and Purpose
Act 852, receiving royal assent on January 24, 2024, aims to regulate tobacco and alternative tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.
Key Measures of Act 852
Malaysia outlines key measures to regulate e-cigarettes effectively:
1. Registration Requirement
All tobacco and alternative tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, must be registered before importation, manufacture, or distribution, with severe penalties for non-compliance.
2. Advertising, Promotion, and Sponsorship
Strict prohibition of tobacco product advertising, including e-cigarettes.
3. Sales Control
Explicit prohibition of tobacco product sales to minors, including e-cigarettes.
4. Packaging and Labeling
Stringent requirements for packaging and labeling of tobacco and alternative tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.
5. No Smoking Areas
Health Minister authority to designate no-smoking areas, with fines for violators.
6. Emergency Measures
Special committees may restrict or prohibit tobacco product use, including e-cigarettes, in emergencies.
7. E-Cigarette Regulation
Until Act 852 enforcement, legal sale of e-cigarettes to minors with strict regulation on advertising, sales, packaging, labeling, and usage.
Immediate Action and Enforcement
Health Minister emphasizes urgent action to curb e-cigarette use and protect public health through Act 852 enforcement.
Conclusion
Malaysia strengthens its regulatory framework with Act 852 enforcement to control e-cigarette use and protect public health. Stringent measures outlined in the Public Health Act aim to mitigate e-cigarette risks, particularly among youth.
