KUCHING: The Sarawak General Operations Force (GOF) seized 7,363 electronic cigarette devices and over 203 litres of vape liquid worth RM1.32 million during a nationwide ‘Ops Bersepadu E-Cigarette Mega’ on Feb 10.
GOF Sarawak Brigade Commander, SAC Lim Bak Phai, said the integrated operations also involved the Health Ministry (MoH), Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), and local authorities (PBT).
He said 20 premises across several districts in Sarawak were inspected for suspected non-compliance in the sale and distribution of electronic cigarette devices.
“During the operations, 20 premises caretakers were checked to ensure compliance with regulations related to the sale and distribution of electronic cigarette devices.
“A total of 7,363 electronic cigarette units and 203.823 litres of liquid were seized, estimated to be worth RM1,329,656.30. Various types of cigarettes worth RM7,017.30 were also confiscated,” he said in a statement.
All seized items have been handed over to MoH for further action under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024.
In the same operations, MoH issued 20 notices under the Act, while local authorities and LHDN also conducted inspections and enforcement action under their respective jurisdictions.
Lim said the operations aimed to ensure compliance with smoking product control regulations, protect public health, and curb unlicensed sales and undeclared tax activities.
He added that GOF and MoH would continue enforcement operations from time to time and warned against involvement in the illegal sale and distribution of electronic cigarette products.
