Malaysia to Submit New Tobacco Bill; Local Vaping Industry May Be Hit Hard

The Malaysian e-cigarette industry may face devastating impacts due to the 2023 Public Health Tobacco Control Bill, which is significant for the country's economy. The implementation of the bill will hinder local entrepreneurs' efforts and negatively affect tax revenue and human resources. The industry is calling for appropriate regulations instead of an outright ban.

According to a report by Focusmalaysia on October 5, the 2023 Public Health Tobacco Products Control Bill (GEG Bill) is expected to be submitted to the lower house next week, which could severely disrupt the Malaysian e-cigarette industry dominated by Malays.

Ridhwan Rosli, Secretary-General of the Malaysian Vape Chamber of Commerce (MVCC), stated:

“If this bill is implemented, it will dismantle the Malaysian e-cigarette industry that currently contributes to our economy.” 

Ridhwan previously stated that recent MVCC research indicates that the Malaysian e-cigarette industry is primarily controlled by Malays. The study also revealed that by the end of 2022, there were thousands of local Malay entrepreneurs and workforce in Malaysia. 

Furthermore, he pointed out that under the current circumstances, the implementation of the GEG Bill could obstruct the hard work of local entrepreneurs in the e-cigarette industry. 

He emphasized that the measures taken by the GEG Bill are too hasty, and banning existing products in the market will be difficult to enforce, only leading to new problems. 

He also warned that if the GEG Bill is implemented, it will gradually stifle the local e-cigarette industry, and from a broader perspective, it will not only affect the e-cigarette industry but also impact the country's economic situation in terms of tax revenue and human resources, while also affecting related industries.

He stressed that now is not the right time to implement such “drastic actions” as the economy remains unstable. He also added that the desire to reduce smoking rates is about to hit a dead end, as even if cigarette prices are low, they can still be easily purchased.

He urged:

“Entrepreneurs should be given opportunities and space; the e-cigarette industry should be encouraged and recognized as one that contributes to the national economy.”

Ridhwan pointed out that what the industry needs now is appropriate regulations, not the GEG Bill, and that proper regulations should be established at every stage from production to packaging and sales.

According to the GEG Bill, children born in 2007 and later will be prohibited from smoking, purchasing, or possessing any type of tobacco products, including e-cigarette products, even after turning 18.