In a statement, the health ministry said it had met with the management to explain the prohibition on the sale and display of smoking products.

It said the ban on selling e-cigarettes through vending machines was provided for under Rule 10 of the Control of Tobacco Product Regulations 2004 under the Food Act 1983.

“The ministry suggested that the management immediately cease the operation of the vending machines as a social responsibility, to which they agreed and complied,” it said.

On Wednesday, FMT reported that social media users were up in arms over a vape vending machine set up at a prominent mall in Kuala Lumpur.

Checks by FMT found that customers could easily purchase vape products from the vending machine by selecting their product of choice on a touchscreen interface and paying through e-wallets like Boost, GrabPay, or Touch ‘n Go.

In its statement, the health ministry said that the impending Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024, also known as Act 852, would also prohibit the sale and display of all smoking products, including through vending machines.

“This regulation is currently being refined and will be enforced alongside Act 852 once approved,” it added.

The ministry also said it had been conducting briefings for enforcement officers and local authorities nationwide since June 9 to prepare for the enforcement of Act 852 and its regulations.

It said the ministry would continue to raise awareness about the dangers of smoking and e-cigarette use.

The health ministry also advised non-smokers to avoid the smoking habit, while encouraging smokers and e-cigarette users to seek cessation treatment at recognised health clinics or through www.jomquit.com.