Child-friendly vapes a new challenge for authorities

KUALA LUMPUR: Easy access to child-friendly disposable vapes presents a new challenge when it comes to keeping students away from the habit, says Education deputy director-general (School Operations) Azman Adnan.

“Exposure to different types of vapes may capture their interest and tempt them to try vaping, presenting a significant challenge,” he told the media after the launch of the healthy living campaign against smoking and vaping here on Wednesday (Dec 13).

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Azman had been asked to comment on disposable vapes resembling toy cars being sold online.

Raising awareness about the consequences of both smoking and vaping is what matters, he said.

“The top priority is dealing with the issue so that our children realise that these habits are something they should not (pick up), that is why all parties must be involved to solve this problem,” he added.

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He said the curriculum has already incorporated awareness of the smoking and vaping habit apart from subjects like health education, adding that Bahasa Melayu and Science subjects had such lessons incorporated as well.

On a separate matter, Azman dismissed allegations that school heads will be prosecuted for reporting bullying incidents.

He said schools are given standard guidelines and investigations will be carried out according to procedure.

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The healthy living campaign is an Education Ministry initiative aimed at increasing awareness of the harmful effects of smoking and vaping.

The goal is to provide practical steps to prevent and overcome these habits.

More than 10,000 schools are taking in the campaign, reaching out to a total of five million students nationwide.