KUCHING: The Sarawak Government has been on high alert to monitor the supply of vape and drug-laced vape products, particularly among the younger demographic due to the rise in health concerns.

Ministry for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah said the government’s efforts are currently focused on education and early intervention, highlighting the serious long-term risks of vaping to youths and the wider community.

“These programmes focus on educating youths on nicotine addiction, the health effects of vaping, and the dangers associated with drug-laced vape products,” she said when responding to a question from Bukit Assek Assemblyman Chieng Jin Ek during the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting on Friday.

She explained that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) through the Sarawak Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department is partnering closely with the Sarawak State Health Department to ensure that such activities are being put to a stop as their efforts focused on illegal vape-related activities which involve drug abuse and criminal relations.

According to data from the Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department, there has been a sharp rise in drug-related vaping incidents, which grew from four cases in 2023 to 14 by 2025.

Since then, this has intensified in 2026, with the total value of confiscated substances already surpassing RM700,000 within the first four months of the year alone.

While a comprehensive ban remains a future possibility, Dato Sri Fatimah said the Sarawak Government is currently prioritising the reinforcement of public awareness and community readiness.

“The government will continue to monitor the situation carefully based on public health concerns, enforcement effectiveness and the wellbeing of the rakyat especially the younger generation,” she ensured.

Meanwhile, she said a total of 34 intervention programmes were implemented statewide throughout 2025 which focused on prevention, education and awareness initiatives aimed at discouraging youth involvement in vaping activities.

“These programmes include advocacy campaigns, school and community outreach activities, health awareness talks and collaborative programmes involving enforcement agencies, education institutions and community organisations,” she added. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Sarah Nicole Hii
Photo by: Hazrin Sunaini