Over 60 vape shops in Perak must cease operations by Jan 1, 2026 - Exco

IPOH - More than 60 licensed premises selling electronic cigarettes or vape across 15 local authorities (PBTs) in Perak will be required to cease operations by Jan 1 next year, as no new licences for such sales will be issued beyond that date.

State Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Sandrea Ng Shy Ching said premises that have recently renewed their licences and whose validity extends past Jan 1 will be allowed to continue operating to clear existing stock, after which their licences will be revoked.

"The move is in line with the state government’s policy to prohibit the sale of electronic cigarettes after that date,” she said.

She said this at a press conference after attending the Ipoh Local Plan 2035 draft publicity and public participation programme organised by the Ipoh City Council (MBI) here today.

Ng added that enforcement and legal action related to e-cigarette business licences fall fully under the jurisdiction of the local authorities (PBTs).

"However, we will work closely with the Perak Health Department to ensure that no premises continue operating with these products.

"We are also taking into account premises that still hold valid licences, which is why the state government has given until January for traders to manage their operations and, if necessary, switch to other businesses,” she said.

On Oct 1, Perak Human Resources, Health, Indian Community Affairs and National Integration Committee chairman A. Sivanesan confirmed that the state will enforce a ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes at all PBT-licensed business premises, following a decision made at the State Executive Council (MMK) meeting.

The decision was reached after the Perak Health Department presented a proposed policy paper on the prohibition of electronic cigarette sales licences at the MMK meeting on Sept 22. - BERNAMA