Law In Place As Influencer Charged For Promoting Smoking Products
Malaysia’s crackdown on smoking and vape promotions took a decisive turn after a local influencer was convicted for advertising vaping products online, marking the first major test case under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852).
The Magistrate’s Court in Putrajaya on Jan 7 found comedian Shahmira Muhamad, better known as Shuib Sepahtu, guilty of promoting vaping through the Dol’s Podcast two years ago. He was fined RM10,000 for violating Section 9(1), which imposes an absolute ban on advertising, promoting or sponsoring smoking products, including e-cigarettes.
Commenting on the ruling, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the ruling sets a “significant legal precedent”, stressing that celebrity status offers no exemption from the law.
“The message is clear — Act 852 applies to everyone, and enforcement actions are not taken lightly. Influencers and businesses must be part of the solution, not the problem,” he said.
In a statement, the Health Ministry (MOH) said Act 852 came into force on Oct 1, 2024, with full implementation beginning a year later under Ops Selamat Paru-Paru, aimed at curbing sales and exposure to smoking products among youths.
“As of Nov 30, a total of 25,643 enforcement operations were conducted across 496,247 premises nationwide, resulting in 160,839 compounds for various offences, including minors purchasing smoking products and smoking in prohibited areas.
“Some 2,352 investigation papers were also been opened for non-compoundable offences, and 58 concluded court cases have yielded fines amounting to RM394,700,” MOH shared.
The ministry reiterated that legal action remains a last resort but urged full compliance to safeguard public health and protect younger generations from harmful exposure to smoking and vape products.
