New Smoking and Vaping Regulations Set to Take Effect on October 1"*

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 — The Health Ministry has announced that the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) will officially be enforced starting October 1. 

This law encompasses regulations on the registration, sale, packaging, and labeling of smoking products, alongside restrictions on smoking in public areas, and includes rules for electronic cigarettes. 

Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that the ministry was waiting for approval from the Attorney-General’s Chambers for the regulations under Act 852. Although the Act was gazetted on February 2, enforcement had been delayed.

The legislation aims to prevent the sale and purchase of tobacco and related products to minors and restrict smoking-related services for those under 18. Health advocates have urged the government to expedite enforcement, especially after a controversial decision last year by former Health Minister Dr. Zaliha Mustafa to remove liquid nicotine from the poisons list, which critics claim has increased the availability of nicotine vapes to children.