Last week, the Terengganu government issued a mandate to ban all sales of electronic cigarette (vape) products throughout the state. The ban is reportedly effective starting this August 1st.

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According to State Local Government, Housing and Health Committee chairman Datuk Wan Sukairi Wan Abdullah, the decision made at the state executive councillors’ meeting was a proactive measure to curb the sale and usage of vape products that pose many negative effects on health.

In a report by Malay Mail, vape traders who continue to sell the products after the ban had taken effect will face strict action under Local Government Act 1976 (Act 171) bylaws, including fines, seizures and court action.

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Additionally, the Terengganu government has also decided not to accept any form of sponsorship from vape manufacturers or distributors for any events involving the state government.

“A three-month grace period from May 1st to July 31st, 2025, will be provided before full enforcement of the ban."

"To support the affected vape operators, the state will offer participation in entrepreneurship courses as well as other business opportunities in more sustainable and safer sectors,” he said.

Although the effort might seem like a great idea, vape traders in Terengganu are urging the government to postpone the ban.

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In another report, the Terengganu branch of the Malay Vape Traders Association said the ban could cause losses of RM5 million a month for the association's 169 members.

Kamaruzaman Mahmud, the group's president, said the three-month grace period was too short for traders to sell off their stocks and switch to another line of business.

He also claimed that the ban was made without seeking the opinions of the business community.

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