The Malaysian Pediatric Association (MPA) is concerned by the reported decision of the Poisons Board to support removing nicotine-containing vape liquids from the Poisons List, and by the government’s move to legalise rather than prohibit these products. Let us be clear.

The science on nicotine has not changed in three years. Nicotine is still addictive and harmful.

In 2023, the Poisons Board unanimously rejected a similar exemption, warning it would enable the sale of nicotine vapes to children. Today, the same Board supports it.

If there is new evidence, it must be published for public and professional scrutiny. If there is none, this decision cannot be justified.