Malaysian state assemblyman warns vape smugglers of strict laws in Johor, Singapore

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According to The Straits Times, more than 15,000 vapes and related components were seized at the land crossings in June and July alone.

ST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG

JOHOR BAHRU – Malaysians, especially young people, should not be tempted by syndicates that offer quick cash to smuggle vapes into Singapore. Those who are caught will have to face the island republic’s strict laws on their own.

Johor Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said he was concerned about the number of vape smuggling cases involving Malaysians.

“As we all know, Johor was the first state in Malaysia to totally ban the sale of vape, including vape liquids, to the public since 2016.

“This means no local council has issued licences for premises to sell such items.

“Singapore has also banned e-cigarettes, including vapes, and it is illegal to use and possess such products under their law,” he said when contacted on Sept 14.

Mr Ling, who is also the Yong Peng assemblyman, said with strict laws already in place in both Johor and Singapore, syndicates were becoming more desperate.

“Some syndicates are using social media and e-commerce platforms to sell vapes to avoid action from the authorities.

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Others are luring locals, particularly youth, to smuggle contraband

Mr Ling urged locals to be vigilant when approached by syndicates to carry such items into Singapore.

“There is no such thing as easy money. Once caught by the Singapore authorities,