Aliran echoes the deep concern voiced by the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) and the Malaysian Paediatric Association (MPA). Both groups are worried about reports that the Poisons Board has supported the health minister’s proposal to remove liquid nicotine used in vaping products from the poisons list.
This would appears to mark a sharp departure from the health minister’s position a year ago, when he said the question is no longer if vaping is going to be banned but when it will happen.
In 2023, the Poison’s Board had unanimously opposed a similar exemption by the then health minister, citing concerns it could facilitate the sale of nicotine vape products to minors. Despite the board’s objections, the minister proceeded to gazette the exemption.
In May this year, the Kuala Lumpur High Court ruled against the 2023 exemption. It found that the decision was driven primarily by economic considerations and made without proper and meaningful consultation with the Poisons Board. The government subsequently withdrew its appeal.
The MPA fears that removing nicotine from the poisons list could make nicotine vape products more accessible to young people.
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Although the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 prohibits sales to those under 18, the association is concerned that relying on stronger enforcement alone would shift the burden of protection onto parents, teachers, healthcare professionals and the wider healthcare system.
It has also called for any new evidence justifying the Poisons Board’s change of position to be published and subjected to professional scrutiny.
While taxing these products may generate revenue for the government, Aliran believes young people could pay a much higher price in the long run through the health consequences of vaping.
The reported change of position also raises questions about whether commercial interests and possible industry influence are being given undue weight in decisions affecting public health.
Aliran calls on the Ministry of Health and the Poisons Board to put people’s health above commercial and revenue considerations, and to explain the public health justification for this proposed change.
Aliran executive committee
5 November 2026
AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama
- Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
- Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
- Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
- Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
- Lawan rasuah dan kronisme
