The Ministry of Health is targeting to implement a vape ban this year, starting with open pod system vapes, according to Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad. He stated that his ministry would not compromise in enforcing the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024.
‘My stance on the issue of cigarettes and vaping remains unchanged. The full enforcement of this Act is our moral responsibility, to protect future generations from the threat of non-communicable diseases and conditions such as popcorn lung,’ he said.
He specifically warned about open pod system vapes, stating that banning them is the first step as they have been abused for the use of synthetic drugs.
The minister announced this after delivering his New Year’s message in Putrajaya today, as reported by Bernama. He added that the proposed ban, covering both the sale and use of such products, would be presented at a Cabinet meeting in the near future.
Separate Healthcare Initiative
In a separate announcement, Dzulkefly said the ‘Rakan KKM’ initiative is expected to be launched in the first quarter of this year. This initiative aims to provide premium economy-class healthcare services at selected government hospitals.
He explained that excess revenue generated from this scheme would be utilised for several key purposes. The funds would help cross-subsidise services for general public patients and support the retention of healthcare workers by offering them opportunities to increase their income. It is also intended to help moderate medical price inflation.
The service will first be introduced at Cyberjaya Hospital. Following this initial rollout, the initiative is planned to be expanded to other government hospitals across the country.
