KUALA LUMPUR, July 9 — Approximately 718.43kg of vape or electronic cigarette products suspected of containing prohibited substances were seized between 2023 and June this year, with 585 arrests involving 400 cases.
The Home Ministry (KDN) said seizures of vape or electronic cigarette products suspected of containing prohibited substances such as synthetic drugs, tetrahydrocannabinol, mushroom extract, and other psychoactive substances totalled 471.50kg in 2023, involving 66 arrests across 32 cases, before declining to 62.68kg in 2024, involving 114 arrests across 92 cases.
However, the amount seized rose to 115.22kg in 2025, involving 138 arrests across 108 cases, while 69.03kg was seized this year up to May, involving 267 arrests across 168 cases.
“The Home Ministry views seriously the growing trend of vape products mixed with prohibited substances targeting youths and students, which are being sold through online platforms, social media and courier services,” it said in a written reply uploaded to the Parliament portal today.
KDN added that the Royal Malaysia Police and other enforcement agencies will continue to intensify integrated special operations with relevant enforcement bodies to curb syndicates distributing dangerous vape products, particularly at entertainment outlets, vape kiosks, synthetic drug laboratories, and locations popular among youths.
Operasi Khas Vape 1.0, which inspected 1,670 premises in April, found 728 to be in violation of regulations. A total of 8,091 vape devices, 5,257 vape cartridges, and 205.764kg of vape substances and liquids worth RM4.59 million were seized.
“The seizure included 19.67kg of substances and liquids suspected of containing drugs, valued at RM2.9 million," it said.
KDN has also stepped up intelligence gathering and cyber surveillance of the sale of vape products containing prohibited substances, enhanced forensic and laboratory analytical capabilities, and intensified enforcement efforts.
Similarly, it implemented advocacy programmes, drug prevention education, and public awareness campaigns, particularly targeting young people and school students.
The ministry will continue to adopt a firm and comprehensive approach to combat the abuse of dangerous vape products to safeguard public safety and well-being, particularly among the younger generation.
