Shuib Sepahtu’s RM10,000 fine shows no shield for celebrities under vape ad ban, says health minister
Malaysia’s health minister affirmed that the vape advertising ban applies to everyone, including celebrities, following a fine imposed on influencer Shuib Sepahtu.Summary
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad emphasized that the ban on advertising and promoting smoking products, including vapes, applies universally, regardless of celebrity status or social media influence. This statement came after comedian and entrepreneur Shuib Sepahtu was fined RM10,000 by the Putrajaya Magistrates’ Court for promoting vape products on his podcast. Dzulkefly described the court’s decision as a significant legal precedent in enforcing the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), stating that the prohibition under Section 9(1) is absolute. He warned that authorities will not hesitate to take action against those who ignore warnings and urged influencers and content creators to actively discourage smoking culture, especially among young people. The minister reiterated that popularity does not exempt anyone from the law, particularly when it concerns public health risks.
(Source：Malay Mail)
