Kuala lumpur: The Negeri Sembilan government is ready and fully supports the federal government's move to implement a complete ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes or vape, said Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin. However, he reiterated that the effort must go hand in hand with stricter law enforcement to ensure its effectiveness.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Aminuddin emphasized the need for laws that can effectively prevent illegal sales. He expressed concerns about the potential for illegal sales to continue if enforcement is not stringent, stating, "We do not want a situation where we say it is banned but sales still happen illegally outside." Aminuddin made these comments after attending the 10th Convocation Ceremony of Kolej Yayasan Negeri Sembilan (KYNS), which involved 250 graduates.
Yesterday, media reports indicated that the Federal Government intends to completely ban the sale of electronic cigarettes or vape as a measure to curb the abuse of such products. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, in a written reply in the Dewan Negara, mentioned that the implementation would be carried out in stages, starting with a ban on the open system before extending to all types of vape products.
Meanwhile, Aminuddin highlighted KYNS's role as a driver of MADANI Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Negeri Sembilan. He affirmed the state government's dedication to providing relevant and future-focused educational opportunities, especially in TVET studies. This year, the state government allocated KYNS an additional RM2.9 million to upgrade learning facilities. Furthermore, RM10 million through a matching grant with Yayasan Negeri Sembilan has been provided for constructing a main hall at the Gentam Campus in Kuala Pilah, expected to be completed within two years.
Aminuddin also expressed hope for KYNS to expand cooperation with various sectors, including semiconductors, electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, maritime, law, and oil and gas. He stressed the importance of ensuring that KYNS graduates are "industry-ready," equipped with confidence, soft skills, and practical experience.
In a related development, the Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) in George Town also welcomed the Health Minister's statement on the proposed ban. CAP Education Officer and Anti-Smoking Activist N. V. Subbarow urged for immediate enforcement of the ban, as the use of vape among students and youths is already beyond control. He advocated for a complete ban rather than a staged approach, highlighting the serious narcotics problem posed by these products among the younger generation.