KUALA LUMPUR: The growing prevalence of vaping among school students, particularly the emergence of drug-laced vape products, has become a serious concern requiring urgent and coordinated action, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
The Alliance for a Safe Community chairman warned that vaping among youths was no longer merely a nicotine-related issue, as the increasing availability of vape liquids mixed with prohibited substances posed a significant threat to public health and national anti-drug efforts.
"The emergence of drug-laced vape products is particularly alarming because it exposes students to dangerous substances that may cause addiction, behavioural problems, impaired judgment and serious health complications," he said when contacted on Sunday (June 14).
He said that the popularity of vaping among students could be attributed to several factors, including attractive packaging, appealing flavours, aggressive online marketing, peer influence and easy accessibility.
He added that many young people mistakenly believed vaping was safer than conventional smoking and were unaware of the risks associated with nicotine addiction.
"Nicotine addiction can develop rapidly and may have long-term effects on brain development, concentration, mental health and academic performance," he lamented.
Lee also expressed concern that drug-laced vape products were often difficult for parents and teachers to detect because of their discreet appearance and reduced odour compared to traditional cigarettes.
"Immediate action was necessary to protect the health and well-being of young Malaysians, prevent addiction from taking root at an early age and safeguard the learning environment in schools," he added.
Vaping and substance abuse among students could contribute to disciplinary problems, absenteeism, declining academic performance and other social issues, Lee said.
He also raised concerns that some youths could become targets for criminal syndicates involved in the sale and distribution of illicit vape products.
Lee called for stronger enforcement against the sale, distribution and promotion of vape products to minors, including regular raids on premises and online platforms suspected of selling illegal or drug-laced vape products.
He also urged authorities to impose heavier penalties on individuals and businesses found supplying vape products to schoolchildren.
Among other measures proposed were enhanced cooperation between schools, parents, police, health authorities, customs and local councils, as well as expanded awareness and prevention programmes in schools focusing on the dangers of vaping and drug abuse.
Lee said teachers, counsellors and parents should also be equipped with the knowledge to identify signs of vaping and substance use among students.
He also called for stricter monitoring of online sales channels and social media platforms that target young consumers, as well as tighter regulations on vape flavours, packaging, advertising and product displays that appeal to children and teenagers.
"The fight against vaping among students cannot be left to schools or enforcement agencies alone. It requires a whole-of-society approach involving families, communities, healthcare professionals, educational institutions and government agencies," he said.
He stressed that allowing vaping, particularly drug-laced vaping, to spread unchecked among students could result in a generation burdened by addiction, health problems and social challenges.
"Immediate and decisive action is necessary to protect our youth and secure a healthier future for Malaysia," he added.
