Malaysia Weighs Tougher Action as Synthetic Drugs Found in Vape Liquids
Malaysia is considering stronger measures against vape products following the discovery of synthetic drugs in vape liquids, a development that authorities fear could expose teenagers and underage users to serious health and addiction risks.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the issue has become a major concern after reports and evidence from the Home Ministry and the Royal Malaysia Police showed that some vape liquids contained prohibited substances.
According to him, laboratory examinations on seized products confirmed the presence of synthetic drugs and other illicit compounds.
“This is certainly a serious matter. We have received reports from the Home Ministry and the police, and there is clear evidence.
“After analysing some vape preparations, we found synthetic drugs, amphetamine and several other prohibited substances,” he said.
Dzulkefly was speaking to reporters after attending the Cik Era Naik MRT programme at MRT TRX.
He revealed that police records up to April this year showed 402 cases involving vape products containing illegal substances.
Among the drugs detected were benzodiazepine, nimetazepam, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and methamphetamine.
The minister said the findings were alarming because vape devices are increasingly popular among young people, raising concerns that many users may unknowingly consume addictive or dangerous substances.
He warned that synthetic drugs delivered through vaping devices could have severe consequences, including addiction, mental health disorders and other long-term health complications.
“What worries us most is that these products may reach teenagers and minors.
“The combination of vaping and illegal drugs creates a much more dangerous situation because users may not realise what they are inhaling,” he said.
Dzulkefly stressed that the issue extends beyond public health and also involves law enforcement and public safety.
As such, the Health Ministry will continue to work closely with the police and the Home Ministry to combat the spread of vape products containing illicit substances.
He added that the government is now evaluating a range of policy options, including stricter regulations and tougher enforcement measures against vape products.
“The discovery of these substances is already a strong indication that tougher action may be necessary.
“The matter is under serious consideration by the government and the Health Ministry is part of those discussions,” he said.
The minister reiterated that protecting young Malaysians from harmful substances remains the government’s top priority and urged parents to play a more active role in monitoring vape use among their children.
He also called for greater public awareness regarding the risks associated with vaping, especially as authorities intensify efforts to curb the misuse of vape products containing illegal drugs.
