The domestic trade and consumer affairs ministry said the ruling followed the gazetting of the Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking) of Non-Medical Face Mask Order 2022 under the Trade Descriptions Act 2011 today.

According to the ministry, the move is to ensure that non-medical face masks produced locally or imported comply with the safety standards.

“The MS Sirim label must be placed on the boxes or packages and must be easily visible to consumers.

“The MS Sirim label indicates that the non-medical face mask products have met the standards, are of good quality and safe to use,” it said.

The ministry said the gazetting was to safeguard the well-being of the people and protect their interests.

In addition, it hoped that with the compliance of standards by manufacturers and importers, the issue of dumping of poor quality non-medical face masks in the Malaysian market would be resolved.

Vaping devices

The Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking) of Electronic Cigarettes (vaping devices) Order 2022 was also gazetted today under the Trade Descriptions Act 2011 to ensure that vaping devices, manufactured locally or imported, comply with safety standards.

The order, which will take effect on Aug 3, requires manufacturers and importers of electronic cigarette devices to apply for Sirim certification and labelling from Sirim QAS International as the certifying authority appointed by the ministry.

Companies failing to comply with the regulations may be fined up to RM200,000 while individuals may face a fine of up to RM100,000 or imprisonment of up to three years or both, if convicted.