Singapore’s vaping offences have hit a record high in 2023, with the government declaring a need to address the ‘growing problem’ through measures extending beyond mere enforcement.
A Troubling Trend Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Health Rahayu Mahzam revealed a concerning increase in vape-related offences, with approximately 8,000 cases reported in 2023. The majority of these offences involve the purchase, use, and possession of vaping products, indicating a widespread issue that demands immediate attention.
The Enforcement Challenge Despite the Health Sciences Authority’s (HSA) efforts, the sheer volume of offences poses a significant challenge. Rahayu emphasized the need for a ‘multi-agency collaborative approach’ to effectively tackle the issue, involving agencies like the National Environment Agency (NEA), National Parks Board (NParks), and Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
Beyond Penalties
Educational Initiatives The government is looking to ramp up educational efforts to inform the public about the risks associated with vaping. This includes integrating efforts across various agencies and implementing guidelines and protocols to prevent the sale and use of e-cigarettes, especially among the youth.
Stepping Up Checks The MOH plans to work with agencies to increase enforcement checks in public places and restrict the online space for illegal activities related to vaping. These steps are crucial in curbing the accessibility and attractiveness of vaping products to Singaporeans.
A Holistic Approach
Integrating Protocols The government’s strategy involves not just catching offenders but also educating people, tracking borders, and restricting online spaces for illegal activities. For example, if schools receive complaints, they will look at disciplinary proceedings as well.
A United Front The MOH’s commitment to a multi-faceted approach reflects a recognition that enforcement alone is not enough. A united front, combining legal, educational, and social strategies, is essential to combat the vaping epidemic in Singapore.
Maria Garcia is an award-winning author who excels in creating engaging cannabis-centric articles that captivate audiences. Her versatile writing style allows her to cover a wide range of topics within the cannabis space, from advocacy and social justice to product reviews and lifestyle features. Maria’s dedication to promoting education and awareness about cannabis shines through in her thoughtfully curated content that resonates with both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
