KUALA LUMPUR: The health and economic cost burden due to diseases related to vape use is estimated to reach about RM369 million per year, far exceeding the amount of excise duty revenue collected by the government from vape products, says the Health Ministry.
"For the period of implementation of excise duty on electronic cigarette or vape products, the total collection recorded was RM80.32 million in 2023, increasing to RM111.14 million in 2024 and RM118.93 million in 2025.
"Meanwhile, for the period from Jan 1 to June 11 this year, the collection was recorded at RM44.11 million, making the total excise duty collection at RM354.51 million," it said in a written reply posted on Dewan Negara website on Wednesday (July 29).
However, the ministry stated that the collection of excise duty revenue from vape products is not a justification for allowing their sale in the market.
The statement came in response to a question from Senator Robert Lau Hui Yew on the proposed vape ban, as well as the total tax revenue collection and justification for allowing vape sales due to the high health risks.
In addition, the ministry said it is strengthening control over high-risk products, including examining the proposal to ban bottled e-cigarette or vape liquids due to the high risk of being mixed with drugs and prohibited substances.
It added that any official decision, including a proposal for a more comprehensive ban, will continue to be evaluated based on scientific evidence, current data, and public health interests.
According to the ministry, the government is fully focused on the implementation and enforcement of the Smoking Products Control for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), which provides a comprehensive regulatory framework for all smoking products, including vaping.
It also said that priority is being given to the enforcement of Act 852, specifically to protect minors.
"This is in line with the provisions under Section 13(1), which prohibits the sale of smoking products to minors, Section 13(3), which prohibits the purchase by minors, and Section 17, which prohibits the use of any smoking products by the relevant group," said the response. - Bernama
