Suhakam’s Children’s Commissioner Urges Government to Curb Vape Supply Targeting Young People

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) children’s commissioner has called on the government to intensify efforts to curb the supply of vape products targeting young people. This appeal comes in response to growing concerns about the rising popularity of vaping among children and adolescents. The commissioner highlighted the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to prevent the marketing and sale of vape products to minors, emphasizing the health risks associated with vaping.

The Appeal for Stricter Regulations

The children’s commissioner has urged the government to implement stricter regulations to control the sale and marketing of vape products. This includes monitoring and restricting the sale of these products through social media platforms, where they are often marketed with bright packaging and appealing flavors that attract young people. The commissioner stressed that the promotion of e-cigarettes as a “healthier” alternative to smoking should not be allowed to mislead children into starting a potentially harmful habit.

In addition to regulating sales, the commissioner called for stricter enforcement of existing laws, such as Section 13 of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2023, which prohibits the sale of tobacco or substitute tobacco products to children. The commissioner also emphasized the importance of educating parents and guardians about the dangers of vaping and encouraging them to be vigilant in protecting their children from these products.

The appeal for stricter regulations is part of a broader effort to address the public health crisis posed by vaping among young people. By implementing and enforcing these measures, the government can help reduce the prevalence of vaping and protect the health and well-being of children and adolescents.

Health Risks and Concerns

The health risks associated with vaping are a major concern for the children’s commissioner. Vaping products often contain nicotine and other harmful chemicals that can have serious health effects, particularly on young people whose bodies and brains are still developing. The commissioner pointed out that the long-term health impacts of vaping are still not fully understood, but early evidence suggests that it can lead to respiratory problems, addiction, and other health issues.

Recent incidents have highlighted the dangers of vaping among young people. For example, a secondary school student was recently hospitalized in critical condition after allegedly using a vape product laced with a harmful substance. Such cases underscore the urgent need for stricter regulations and greater awareness about the risks of vaping.

The commissioner also warned against the narrative that vaping is a safe or harmless alternative to smoking. While some adults may use e-cigarettes to quit smoking, this should not be conflated with introducing nicotine or other addictive chemicals to new users, especially children. The focus should be on preventing young people from starting to vape in the first place.

Community and Parental Involvement

The children’s commissioner emphasized the crucial role of community and parental involvement in curbing the supply and use of vape products among young people. Parents and guardians are encouraged to educate themselves about the risks of vaping and to have open conversations with their children about the dangers associated with these products. By staying informed and vigilant, parents can help protect their children from the harmful effects of vaping.

Community organizations and schools also play a vital role in this effort. Educational programs and campaigns can raise awareness about the risks of vaping and provide young people with the information they need to make healthy choices. Schools can implement policies to prevent vaping on school grounds and provide support for students who may be struggling with addiction.

The commissioner called for a collaborative approach, involving government agencies, health professionals, educators, and community leaders, to address the issue of vaping among young people. By working together, these stakeholders can create a comprehensive strategy to reduce the prevalence of vaping and protect the health of children and adolescents.