Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 10.02.2026 – The Malaysian Ministry of Health plans to introduce a full-scale ban on vaping products, starting with open-pod systems, via amendments to its tobacco control legislation, a move the Health Minister has called non-negotiable. 

This policy is being justified by concerns that some users are consuming illegal substances through pod-based devices. While misuse with illicit drugs is a serious issue, the World Vapers’ Alliance argues that the real problem is the black market, which thrives on prohibition and lack of regulation. With smoking rates in Malaysia still around 18%, health authorities should consider a harm reduction strategy for adults, keeping vaping products legal and sold through licensed vape shops, to better prevent substance misuse while helping smokers quit.

“It is important to address the risks associated with illicit trade and access to dangerous substances; however, this cannot be achieved through prohibitionism. In fact, the harsher the bans, the greater the likelihood that consumers will turn to the black market,” said Liza Katsiashvili, Operations Director at the World Vapers’ Alliance.

More than 100 independent organisations agree that vaping is less harmful than smoking, and a recent Cochrane review has recognised vaping as an effective tool to help adults quit combustible tobacco. Countries such as Sweden, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand have successfully adopted harm reduction strategies to significantly reduce smoking rates.

“Four million adults in Malaysia smoke daily. By banning vaping products, the Ministry of Health risks depriving millions of smokers of access to less harmful alternatives and a real opportunity to quit combustible tobacco. We urge the Ministry to reconsider this decision,” said Michael Landl, Director of the World Vapers’ Alliance.

The ban is expected to be implemented by the Malaysian Ministry of Health in June 2026. Until then, the proposed amendment remains under consideration.

“Banning open-system vapes removes legal options, not risky behaviour, and when regulation ignores demand and enforcement realities, it ends up worsening the very harms it claims to prevent.” – said Tarmizi Anuvar, Country Associate Malaysia at Consumer Choice Center.

As discussions continue, it is essential that policymakers carefully assess the potential public health impact of a vaping ban, including its implications for adult smokers seeking less harmful alternatives. Evidence-based dialogue and stakeholder engagement will be crucial in ensuring that future regulations effectively address public health concerns while avoiding unintended consequences.