Vape Group Fears New Law Could Push Vapers Back to Cigarettes

The Malaysian Vapers Alliance (MVA) has expressed significant concerns over the upcoming Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852). The group fears that the new law, which aims to regulate vaping products similarly to cigarettes, could inadvertently drive former smokers back to traditional tobacco use. With a substantial portion of vapers being former smokers, the MVA warns that harsh regulations could undermine public health efforts to reduce smoking rates in Malaysia.

Concerns Over New Regulations

The MVA has highlighted that a significant majority of vapers, approximately 73.7%, were previously cigarette smokers. The group argues that classifying vaping products in the same category as cigarettes, including measures like banning the display of vape products, could lead to unintended consequences. Such regulations might push vapers back to smoking traditional cigarettes, reversing the progress made in reducing smoking prevalence.

The president of MVA, Khairil Azizi Khairuddin, emphasized the importance of distinguishing between vaping and smoking in the new law. He pointed out that many vapers have successfully quit smoking traditional tobacco through vaping. Harsh regulations that fail to recognize this distinction could jeopardize their health and undermine nationwide efforts to reduce smoking rates.

Additionally, the MVA has called for a balanced approach that acknowledges the harm reduction potential of vaping. They believe that sensible regulations can protect public health while ensuring that vapers do not revert to smoking. The group remains committed to advocating for the rights of vapers and engaging with stakeholders to address these concerns.

Potential Impact on Public Health

The potential impact of the new regulations on public health is a major concern for the MVA. They argue that vaping has been a crucial tool for many individuals in quitting smoking. By imposing strict regulations that equate vaping with smoking, the government risks discouraging people from using a less harmful alternative to cigarettes.

The MVA also highlighted that 80.1% of vapers switched to vaping as a means to quit smoking. This statistic underscores the importance of vaping as a harm reduction tool. The group fears that if the new law is implemented without considering the unique nature of vaping, it could lead to a public health setback, with more people returning to smoking.

Furthermore, the MVA has urged the Ministry of Health to ensure that the final version of Act 852 includes regulations that support harm reduction. They believe that informed and balanced regulation can protect public health while ensuring that vapers do not revert to smoking. The group remains hopeful that the government will consider their concerns and adopt a more nuanced approach.

Advocacy and Future Steps

The MVA is actively advocating for the rights of vapers and engaging with various stakeholders to address the potential impact of the new law. They are committed to ensuring that the voices of vapers are heard and that the regulations reflect the unique nature of vaping as a harm reduction tool.

The group has also emphasized the need for continued dialogue with the Ministry of Health and other relevant authorities. They believe that through collaboration and open communication, it is possible to develop regulations that protect public health without driving vapers back to smoking.

In addition to advocacy efforts, the MVA is also focusing on raising public awareness about the potential impact of the new law. They are encouraging vapers to voice their concerns and participate in discussions about the future of vaping regulation in Malaysia. By mobilizing the vaping community, the MVA hopes to influence the development of more balanced and effective regulations.