Vaping: The new addiction hooking our youth
Expert stressed the importance of proactive measures in the education sector, urging schools and parents to act as guardians to prevent the spread of vape culture among students.
SHAH ALAM - The rising normalisation of e-cigarette or vape use among youth could lead to an increase in the consumption of other illicit substances, potentially creating a generation vulnerable to nicotine addiction.
Malaysian Community Care Foundation (MCCF) Chairman Datuk Seri Halim Ishak expressed concern that although vaping is often viewed as an alternative to traditional tobacco cigarettes, it poses significant health risks, including lung disease and respiratory disorders.
“The Health Ministry is responsible for regulating health-related products, including vapes.
"Law enforcement agencies like the police force play a crucial role in monitoring illegal vape sales, especially those involving banned substances,” he said.
Halim stressed the importance of proactive measures in the education sector, urging schools and parents to act as guardians to prevent the spread of vape culture among students.
Recent media reports highlighted that the National Poison Centre had issued warnings about e-cigarettes or vapes containing magic mushrooms and other dangerous synthetic drugs, which can cause severe poisoning and even death.
This discovery pointed to a gap in the legal control over vape products, now beginning to impact public health.
Halim further heightened that various measures could be implemented by authorities to curb and reduce the negative effects of vaping, particularly among the youth.
He suggested the organisation of support programmes to assist those hoping to quit vaping, including counselling services and addiction therapy.
“Simultaneously, laws and regulations related to vape use and the prohibition of sales to minors should be strengthened.
"Enforcement operations against unlicensed vape sellers must be intensified to ensure that the products on the market comply with established safety standards.
“In educational settings, modules on the dangers of vaping and illicit substances should be integrated into the school curriculum, or a widespread awareness campaign should be launched to highlight the risks associated with vape use, particularly targeting young people and students,” Halim added.
