Malaysia bans open displays of vape and tobacco products
Starting April 1, 2025, Malaysia has officially banned the open display of tobacco and vape products in retail stores. Under the 2024 Public Health Smoking Product Control Act (Act 852), all such products must now be stored in closed cabinets, restricting direct visibility in both retail and dining establishments.
This regulation, which took effect on October 1, 2024, includes rules on vape sales, product registration, packaging, labeling, and public smoking restrictions. The goal is to reduce public exposure to vaping and tobacco products, particularly among young consumers.
Retailers in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Selangor were given advance notice to comply. Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, Chairman of the Penang Health Committee, stated that authorities will monitor compliance closely. Individuals violating the regulation may face fines ranging from MYR 500 (USD 112) to MYR 30,000 (USD 6,744), while businesses could be fined up to MYR 300,000 (USD 67,438) or face legal action.
The law aims to limit youth exposure and tighten vape regulations
Act 852 is designed to reduce the influence of vape and tobacco products by limiting visibility in stores, discouraging impulse purchases, and restricting access to minors. Research shows that prominent vape product displays significantly increase consumer interest, particularly among young people. By mandating concealed storage, the government aims to create a more controlled and health-conscious retail environment.
This is part of a broader plan to gradually tighten vape regulations. Beginning in October 2025, Malaysia will introduce new restrictions, including:
• Lowering the maximum nicotine concentration from 35mg/ml to 20mg/ml
• Limiting vape pod capacity to 2ml per cartridge
These changes signal the government’s long-term commitment to stricter vape industry controls.
The new regulation sparks debate between public health advocates and retailers
The enforcement of Act 852 has led to divided opinions between health organizations and vape industry stakeholders.
• The Penang Consumers Association (CAP) supports the law, calling it an essential step to protect non-smokers and youth. CAP urges the Ministry of Health to resist commercial pressures and implement even stricter policies to reduce nicotine consumption.
• On the other hand, the Federation of Sundry Goods Merchants Associations of Malaysia (FSGMAM), led by Cheah Chee Ming, argues that the law was introduced without proper consultation with small retailers. Vape shop owners claim that compliance costs are rising and that adapting their sales strategies is a major challenge.
This ongoing debate highlights the broader struggle between public health priorities and business interests as Malaysia continues to implement tighter nicotine regulations.
Vape retailers adapt to compliance challenges while navigating future restrictions
As Malaysia enforces stricter regulations, vape retailers are exploring new ways to stay compliant while maintaining sales. Many are adjusting by:
• Implementing closed display systems to adhere to the new visibility restrictions
• Providing personalized customer consultations to help consumers make informed choices
Exploring digital marketing and alternative in-store engagement strategies
How SP2S is responding to Malaysia’s evolving vape regulations
As a brand with an established presence in Malaysia’s vape market, SP2S has been actively following regulatory updates to ensure compliance while continuing to serve consumers. Since its expansion into Malaysia, SP2S has been working closely with distributors and retail partners to adapt to new industry standards.
With retail presence in key regions such as Penang, Selangor, and Kuala Lumpur, SP2S and its local partners have been exploring solutions that align with the new regulations, including:
• Enhancing retail compliance measures to meet Malaysia’s evolving legal framework
• Strengthening partnerships with vape retailers to provide guidance on adapting in-store displays
• Ensuring that all SP2S products comply with upcoming nicotine and pod capacity restrictions
Looking ahead, SP2S remains committed to delivering high-quality vaping products while navigating the changing regulatory landscape in Malaysia. By maintaining a strong focus on compliance and innovation, SP2S continues to support a responsible and sustainable vape industry.
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