GEORGE TOWN, March 25 — The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) has called for a complete ban on smoking and vaping, warning of an impending public health crisis driven by the rise of illicit drug-laced vape liquids. CAP argues that partial regulations have proven ineffective, citing industry resistance to past tobacco control measures and the aggressive marketing tactics of vape retailers.
The alarming increase in drug-laced vape product seizures—119 cases in 2024, up from 32 in 2023—underscores the urgency of the issue. With vaping serving as a gateway to illicit drug addiction, CAP urges the government to implement a sweeping ban before the situation escalates beyond control.
