ABIM FULLY SUPPORTS MOH’S PROPOSAL TO BAN VAPES, URGES CABINET TO EXPEDITE IMPLEMENTATION

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 8 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement (ABIM) has expressed its full support for the Health Ministry’s (MOH) proposal, to present a memorandum to the Cabinet seeking a complete ban on electronic cigarettes or vape products in the country.

Its secretary-general Muhamad Aliemran Norasid said that the move was a firm and responsible step to protect public health, particularly among the younger generation, who are increasingly exposed to the risks of nicotine addiction.

He said that the move was in line with MOH data, which showed an increase in cases of e-cigarette or vaping use-associated lung injury (EVALI), with treatment costs expected to reach RM400 million by 2030.

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“ABIM views a complete ban on vape as an investment in the future - to build a generation free from addiction, morally resilient, capable of critical thinking and empowered to make sound life decisions,” he said, in a statement.

In this regard, ABIM urged the Cabinet to fully support the memorandum to be presented by the MOH without political delay or influence from industry pressure, and to expedite the implementation of the electronic cigarette ban.

ABIM also urged the government to introduce a comprehensive support plan, which includes public education, addiction treatment, and integrated enforcement involving multiple agencies.

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Muhamad Aliemran said that the proposed vape ban was in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations, adding that Malaysia should follow the example of countries such as Australia, Thailand and India, which have implemented a complete ban on vape products.

“ABIM, as a MADANI civil society organisation which champions the well-being of the people, and promotes healthy living based on Islamic values, believes that protecting public health is both a religious obligation and a leadership responsibility,” he said.

Yesterday, the media reported that the MOH would submit a Cabinet memorandum this year, to propose a complete ban on the use of electronic cigarettes or vapes.

Without disclosing the expected date of its presentation, Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said that the move aims to enable the ministry to obtain policy approval for the full implementation of the vaping ban, nationwide.

-- BERNAMA