Citing growing public health concerns, Kok urged the government to follow the example of countries such as Thailand, Singapore, Brazil and Argentina, which have implemented outright bans on vape and e-cigarette products.

She said the idea that vaping is a safer alternative to smoking is a dangerous misconception as it has been linked to lung disease, respiratory system damage, and increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

In a statement, she also highlighted health ministry data which revealed that 70% of vape products tested contained banned substances such as methamphetamine and synthetic cannabinoids, and 80% of vape-related cases investigated in 2024 involved drug abuse.

“These numbers clearly demonstrate that vape products are not just hazardous to health, they have become conduits for smuggling and substance abuse, particularly among youths and teenagers.

“This issue demands urgent, serious, and uncompromising action. Public health, especially the wellbeing of our younger generation, must be prioritised above all else,” she said.

In the Dewan Rakyat today, health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said his ministry is considering a total ban on the sale and use of vape and electronic cigarettes.

However, he said the move requires several issues to be taken into consideration such as legal implications, enforcement, and public health.

Several state governments have moved towards completely banning the sale of vapes, including Perlis, Terengganu, Kedah and Pahang. Johor and Kelantan have banned the sale of these products since 2016 and 2015, respectively.