KUCHING: A 33-year-old premises manager pleaded guilty on Monday (Jan 19) to promoting vape products at a local shop, resulting in a RM20,000 fine for the company he represented.
The admission came after the charge was read before Magistrate Ling Hui Chuan at the Magistrate’s Court.
In a statement the State Health Department (JKNS) said the manager was representing the company, which was accused of promoting smoking products through a poster that read “BEST VALUE FOR MONEY” at the premises on October 6, 2025.
The case was prosecuted under Section 9(1) and Section 9(3) of the Control of Smoking Product for Public Health Act 2024, which carries a fine of RM20,000 to RM100,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both.
During proceedings, the accused requested a lighter sentence, citing that it was his first offence and assuring the court that the violation would not be repeated.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Mohd Fairos Ibrahim, however, emphasised that promoting any smoking product including vapes and tobacco alternatives is an offence under the Act, whether at physical premises or on social media.
“The offense cannot be compounded. A fitting punishment is necessary as a lesson for the accused and a reminder to other companies to comply with the law,” he said.
In a separate case, another vape-selling company pleaded not guilty under Section 10(1) for having its products easily visible from outside the shop.
Case management has been set for Feb 23.
