Researchers urge the government not to delay the anti-smoking bill

The members of Universiti Malaya’s Centre for Addiction Science Studies (UMCAS) are urging for the immediate passing of the Control of Smoking Product for Public Health Bill 2023 in order to protect future generations from the dangers of smoking and vaping, according to a statement released on Wednesday (Oct 11) by the Nicotine Addiction Research Collaborating Group (NARCC).

Citing research conducted at the Universiti Malaya Medical Centre, the NARCC highlights that out of 100,000 severe acute respiratory infections (Sari) cases, 840 were associated with e-cigarettes or vaping product-associated lung injury (Evali). They emphasize that the economic benefits promised by the vaping industry are outweighed by the costs incurred due to serious illnesses associated with vaping and the potential respiratory system damage caused by it.

Assoc Prof Dr Nur Amani @ Natasha Ahmad Tajuddin, a member of the NARCC, points out that countries like England, Australia, and New Zealand have relaxed vaping regulations, resulting in an increase in usage among teenagers and children. The ‘National Health Morbidity Survey 2022’ reveals that 14.9% of adolescents aged 13 to 17 vape, and this number has risen to 15.1% since the Generational Endgame program began in 2022 until 2023 in several schools at Universiti Malaya.

Dr Nur Amani @ Natasha Ahmad Tajuddin highlights that the decision to remove nicotine liquid from the Poisons Act on April 1 has led to the sale of vape products to adolescents and children. The National Poison Center survey further demonstrates that vape products are being sold alongside candies and stationery in retail stores. Additionally, she expresses concern over the influence of celebrities promoting vape on social media and the presentation of online sales as a ‘cool’ lifestyle, which captivates adolescents and children.

Dr Anne Yee, an Addiction Psychiatry Specialist, warns that individuals who accidentally inhale smoke from nearby vapers are also at risk of respiratory issues. Dr Nur Amani emphasizes the urgency of passing the Control of Smoking Product for Public Health Bill 2023 and urges the government to do so expeditiously.