GEG bill delay may increase number of child smokers
SHAH ALAM - The delay in the implementation of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Bill 2023 has the potential to boost the number of child smokers.
National Parent-Teacher Association (PIBGN) President Datuk Dr Mohamad Ali Hassan said the group was concerned that nicotine addiction might lead to drug addiction at an early age, given reports of vape liquid containing various drugs.
"PIBGN is deeply concerned about the current smoking issue, with children as young as nine years old engaging in the use of smoking products, particularly vaping.
"What is even more distressing is that the vape products available in the market currently contain exceptionally high levels of nicotine, and some are even mixed with dangerous substances like methamphetamine and 'magic mushrooms.'
"Without the introduction of the Generational End Game (GEG) legislation and regulation of vaping products, the gateway to drug addiction will remain wide open. It's worth noting that many drug addicts start with the habit of smoking and vaping," he said in a statement on Wednesday.
Last Monday, the second reading of the legislation known as the GEG was postponed in the Dewan Rakyat without specifying a new date.
The Health Ministry previously postponed the bill's reading to allow for other government matters, as specified in the meetings proceeding.
Ali also hoped that the Education Ministry would take a more serious approach to assisting students who have fallen into the habit of smoking and vaping, rather than focusing solely on discipline and punitive measures.
"It's a matter of concern for us because a substantial number of drug addicts initiate their journey with the habit of smoking, electronic cigarettes, or vaping. This is particularly worrying as the issue of smoking, especially vaping, among school students is reaching critical levels.
"We can see the availability of electronic cigarettes in the open market, which naturally attracts the attention of schoolchildren. Without adequate regulation, this situation will inevitably escalate," he said.
