SERI ISKANDAR: A new law to curb the use of vapes, shisha and e-cigarettes is being formulated, says Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
The Health Minister said currently the matter is under the observation of the ministry’s legal advisor.
“We will refer the matter to the Attorney General's Chambers soon before the new law is drafted,” he told reporters after the launching of the National Level Combi convention at a hotel here Sunday (July 28).
Dzulkefly said that the task force headed by his deputy would also help find ways to control the use of e-cigarettes or vaping.
“There will be more enforcement efforts to curb its accessibility, especially to students and those below 18. There will be follow up statements from the task force from time to time on its effectiveness,” he added.
He was asked to comment on social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye’s statement that a new Bill should be proposed to control the use of e-cigarettes, vapes and shisha.
Lee had said that the Bill should also take into account similar products that could influence children, such as the “Ghost Smoke” candy.
Dzulkefly added that when the new law is in place, the current Tobacco Act would be included.
On the "Ghost Smoke" candy, Dzulkefly said that the ministry had taken the necessary samples and would be making its findings public soon.
“We will be in a better position to state our stand on the matter once the results are out,” he said.