16 December 2025
By Izz Laily Hussein – New Straits Times
JOHOR BARU: A full nationwide vape ban is now firmly on the government’s agenda, with the Health Ministry targeting next year for full enforcement amid rising concerns over drug abuse and mental health risks.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the question was no longer whether vape products would be banned, but when, adding that the policy direction had already been set.
“We are actually ready. This is no longer about ‘if’ we ban vapes, but ‘when’ we do so,” he told reporters after a working visit to Hospital Permai today.
He said the ministry is targeting enforcement of the ban by mid-2026, or at the latest by the end of the year, subject to cabinet deliberation early next year.
LINK: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2025/08/1263762/moh-finalising-repor…
Although the proposal was not tabled at the most recent cabinet meeting, Dr Dzulkefly said he was confident it would be brought forward again for consideration.
Explaining the urgency, he cited growing evidence of vape liquids being mixed with synthetic substances and illegal drugs, which have been linked to drug-induced psychosis and severe mental health disorders.
“We are hearing far too many disturbing reports about vape use.
“Just today, I was informed of patients referred here suffering from psychosis linked to synthetic cannabis and other prohibited substances, some of which were consumed through vape devices,” he said.
Also present were Johor Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon and Johor Health Department director Dr Mohtar Pungut @ Ahmad.
Dr Dzulkefly said the proposed ban forms part of broader efforts to protect public health, particularly among young people, as authorities tackle the evolving risks posed by vaping and unregulated substances.