KUALA LUMPUR: Amidst concerns over close to 20,000 students having been caught vaping in schools last year, groups are calling for stronger regulations and enforcement to protect the younger generation.
Consumers Association of Penang education officer N V Subbarow said there currently seems to be a “vape epidemic”.
“Around every corner, there always seems to be a shop selling either vapes or e-cigarettes.
“The colourful packaging and branding of the products, which come in various flavours, also makes the product attractive to children,” he said.
He proposed that the local authorities stop issuing licences for new vape shops and possibly cease renewing existing licences.
“There should be no vape shops near schools or community areas.
“Roadside stalls selling the product must also be removed,” he said.
Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said vaping, while marketed as a safe alternative to smoking, is far from harmless.
“Vaping and early experimentation with substances often serve as a gateway to more harmful drug use. “Preventing such behaviour at an early stage is critical to breaking this cycle,” he said.
Lee urged for stricter enforcement of related laws and said online platforms should be monitored to crack down on hidden vape promotions and sales.
“Impose stricter penalties on retailers found to be selling vaping devices or drugs to minors,” he said.
He said that schools should empower confidential reporting systems to encourage students to seek help without fear of punishment.
“Parents, too, must have open and honest conversations with their children about this.
“Provide parents with resources to recognise signs of vaping or drug use and guide them on how to address these issues effectively,” he said.
On Wednesday (Feb 5), Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh said 19,450 students were caught vaping in schools last year.
This is more five than five times the number of students caught smoking last year (3,704), according to figures from the ministry’s Students Discipline System (SSDM).
