Govt mulls over setting regulations for nicotine, chemical content in vapes

The government is considering to set regulations to ensure the nicotine and chemical content in cigarettes or vapes do not harm consumers.

Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said setting regulations was better than banning the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) altogether.

"What's important is not to ban (the use of vape), it's better to set regulations, for example, maybe capping the percentage of nicotine content in a vape.

"In terms of using chemicals, it should be within the rules allowed by the government, so there is no question of risk for consumers," he told reporters after attending a get-together of Perak State Village Development and Security Committees (JKKK) today.

He said the health ministry was conducting a study on the risks of using vape, adding it was also asked to educate consumers on the effects of its use.

Ismail Sabri said based on reports from the United Kingdom, vaping was 95 per cent safer than smoking cigarettes.

"Cigarettes, which are far more dangerous than vape, why aren't they banned? Why should we forbid something less dangerous and allow something that is much more dangerous?," asked the minister.

In the meantime, he said the use of vape was a new phenomenon among youths who not only used it, but also sold the equipment and liquid flavours.

"Vape, in terms of its economic potential is huge. Malaysia is the second country after the United States that has a high income through the industry...95 per cent of vape entrepreneurs are among the Malays," he said.

Meanwhile, on the age limit for village chiefs, Ismail Sabri said the ministry had proposed that the post be allowed for those beyond the age of 65.

He said he would discuss with the menteris besar and executive councils in all states on the matter.

"Previously, the Cabinet had decided that at age 65, a village head should step down. However, the ministry will suggest for some exceptions in certain circumstances."

Ismail Sabri said the ministry also planned to establish a condition whereby, a village head must be a registered voter with the Election Commission.

"They are appointed as assistant registrars of voters, so how can they be looking for people to register to vote, but then not be registered themselves?," he asked.