NILAI, 24 April 2025 – The people of Negeri Sembilan, especially in Nilai, are increasingly concerned about the rise in the use of vape, electronic cigarettes, and shisha among the younger generation. This issue has garnered serious attention from the public, who view it as a threat to public health and the future of the next generation. In this context, many are urging the Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Dato’ Seri Aminuddin Harun, to take more decisive action in addressing this issue, particularly in Nilai, which has been reported as the most affected area.
Although the Minister of Health Malaysia, Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad, has announced plans to strengthen enforcement of these products through the Smoking Products Control Act for Public Health 2024 (Act 852), the people of Nilai feel that insufficient action has been taken at the state level. This comes despite Nilai, Port Dickson, and Temiang being reported as having numerous shops selling vape, electronic cigarettes, and shisha, with involvement of foreign workers without permits, further raising concerns about safety and public well-being.
“This situation cannot be allowed to continue. The people of Nilai and surrounding areas have been warning about this danger, and we need immediate action from the Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan. We hope he will seek advice from KKM and take more effective steps in addressing this problem,” said a resident of Nilai, who wished to remain anonymous.
Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, has issued a strong warning about the dangers of vape to the nation’s youth, while the Terengganu state government has already taken a firm step by implementing a complete ban on vape and electronic cigarettes starting August 2025. This has led many to question why Negeri Sembilan has not taken similar action, especially with reports of increasing use of these substances among students.
Minister of Health, Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad, stated that his ministry will continue to enforce the law to protect youth from falling into the trap of using electronic cigarettes and vape. He also expressed his willingness to review Act 852 if enforcement has not been effective.
In light of this, the people of Negeri Sembilan are demanding that Menteri Besar, Dato’ Seri Aminuddin Harun, no longer remain silent on this issue. Firm action must be taken to ensure that the younger generation is not trapped in habits that could destroy their future. The people also expect ADUN Nilai, YB Arul Kumar, to take more responsibility in fulfilling the mandate entrusted to them.
“We do not want Nilai to become an example of a region that failed to address this public health issue. We need leaders who are sensitive and responsive to the welfare of the people,” said a mother from Nilai.
With this call for action, it is hoped that the state authorities will take immediate and decisive steps in tackling the issues of vape, electronic cigarettes, and shisha in Negeri Sembilan for the well-being of the people and the future of the nation.