Malaysia Enforces Strict Ban on E-Cigarette Promotion, Imposes Fines

Malaysia's Ministry of Health has sent a clear message regarding the promotion of tobacco and e-cigarette products, emphasizing that no individual is above the law. This follows a recent court ruling in Putrajaya, where comedian and entrepreneur S. Uthayakumar was fined RM10,000 (approximately SGD3,162) for promoting e-cigarettes on social media platforms two years ago.

In a Facebook post on Friday, January 9, Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin stated that the 2024 Public Health (Tobacco and Smoking) Regulations explicitly prohibit the advertising, promotion, or sponsorship of tobacco products. This ban applies to everyone, including celebrities, influencers, and business owners.

Khairy highlighted that fame or public status should not exempt anyone from adhering to these regulations. He stressed that ignoring such warnings would pose risks to young people and could lead to legal consequences. 'All social media influencers and content creators should play a role in addressing the issue of smoking and vaping, rather than contributing to a culture that normalizes it,' he added.

The court's decision sets an important legal precedent, underscoring the seriousness of the ban on promoting e-cigarettes and related products. Khairy emphasized that this ruling sends a clear message: the promotion of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, is strictly prohibited under Malaysian law.

This case reflects Malaysia's growing efforts to regulate and restrict the use of e-cigarettes. The country has been increasingly vocal about the health risks associated with vaping, aligning its policies with global trends that prioritize public health over commercial interests.