The Federation of Reproductive Health Associations of Malaysia says the generational end game (GEG) to smoking or vaping must be rephrased by considering young people’s distress and stigma.
Anti-tobacco advocates say the law is the first step to forming a smoke-free culture, like in developed countries, citing ongoing Malaysian anti-tobacco educational programmes in school and homes.
Nearly 9 of 10 lung cancer deaths are caused by smoking tobacco or second-hand smoke exposure. If implemented properly, the tobacco control bill can save billions of ringgit on health expenditure and minimise the need to treat tobacco-related illnesses.
Those born from 2007, including when still a minor, who are suspected of possessing cigarettes/ vape will be subject to forcible entry and search and seizure in their home, including body searches, under the tobacco control bill.
Health PSC recommends codifying 3-year and 10-year mandatory evaluations of government preparedness for the GEG and effectiveness of the tobacco control law.
The Control of Tobacco Product and Smoking Bill 2022 criminalises the purchase, possession, and use of cigarettes or vape, or smoking/ vaping, by individuals born from Jan 1, 2007 -- aged 15 or below today -- with a max RM5,000 fine/ max RM2,500 compound.
It's unclear what drove Mevta to make a sudden about-turn in its position on the GEG or what concessions, if any, were offered by MOH to the vape industry in exchange for support.