Starting from 1 April 2025, Malaysia will implement new regulations prohibiting the open sale of cigarettes and vape products. This initiative is part of the Control of Smoking Product for Public Health Bill 2024, which was passed in the Dewan Rakyat on 12 June 2024. The legislation aims to reduce the accessibility of smoking products, particularly among younger populations, and to promote public health.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The Control of Smoking Product for Public Health Bill 2024 introduces several significant measures:

• Prohibition of Open Sales: Retailers are no longer permitted to display cigarettes and vape products openly. Instead, these items must be stored out of public view, and customers must request them specifically to make a purchase.
• Ban on Advertising and Promotion: All forms of advertising, promotion, and sponsorship related to smoking products are strictly prohibited. This includes point-of-sale displays, online promotions, and any form of indirect advertising.
• Age Verification: Retailers are mandated to verify the age of purchasers to ensure that no smoking products are sold to individuals under the age of 18.

Government’s Rationale

The Malaysian government has expressed concerns over the rising number of young smokers and vapers. Health Minister Dr. Noor Hisham Abdullah stated that the new regulations are designed to curb the initiation of smoking habits among youths by limiting the visibility and accessibility of these products. He emphasised that reducing exposure to smoking products is crucial in preventing smoking-related diseases and promoting a healthier society.

Impact on Retailers

Retailers across Malaysia are required to adjust their sales practices to comply with the new regulations. This includes restructuring store layouts to ensure that smoking products are not visible to customers and training staff to conduct proper age verification checks. Failure to adhere to these regulations may result in fines, suspension of business licences, or other legal actions.

Public Response

The public’s reaction to the new regulations has been mixed. Health advocacy groups have lauded the government’s proactive approach to tackling smoking-related health issues. They believe that these measures will deter young people from picking up smoking habits and contribute to a decline in smoking prevalence over time.

Conversely, some retailers and consumers have expressed concerns regarding the potential economic impact and personal freedoms. Small business owners worry about decreased sales and the costs associated with modifying store layouts. Some consumers feel that the regulations infringe upon personal choice and question the effectiveness of such measures in reducing smoking rates.

International Perspective

Malaysia joins a growing list of countries implementing stringent controls on the sale and promotion of smoking products. Nations like Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada have already enforced similar regulations, including plain packaging laws and bans on advertising, which have been associated with declines in smoking rates. The World Health Organization supports such measures, citing them as effective strategies in reducing tobacco consumption globally.

Out of Sight, Out of Reach

The enforcement of the Control of Smoking Product for Public Health Bill 2024 marks a significant step in Malaysia’s efforts to promote public health and reduce smoking-related illnesses. While the success of these regulations will depend on effective implementation and public compliance, they reflect a committed approach to addressing the challenges posed by smoking and vaping in contemporary society.