SINGAPORE: The latest crackdown on vaping in Singapore has escalated as authorities focus on the alarming rise of drug-laced products like Kpods. At a press conference on 30 August 2024, Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung outlined the swift and decisive actions taken to protect public health, particularly among the youth.
Immediate Actions Against Vaping
Starting 1 September 2024, etomidate—a potent anaesthetic agent found in certain vape devices—will be classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act. This classification enables immediate enforcement against the distribution and usage of Kpods, which have recently been identified as containing harmful substances.
- Public education on the dangers of etomidate will intensify.
- First-time offenders under 18 will face fines of S$500, while those older will be fined S$700.
- Repeat offenders must attend rehabilitation for three months, with first-time Kpod users required to do so for up to six months.
Statistical Insights on Smoking Trends
Addressing concerns that stricter regulations may inadvertently push youths towards smoking traditional cigarettes, Ong pointed out a positive trend. According to a survey by Milieu Insight, regular smoking rates have decreased from 10.5% in 2022 to 9.5% in late 2023. “Without vaping, young people wouldn’t be smoking. It’s just not cool,” he remarked.
Understanding the Risks
Ong highlighted that vape pods can contain the equivalent nicotine of four packs of cigarettes. In his view, while cigarettes are deeply ingrained in society, this does not justify the introduction of newer harmful substances. Singapore’s early ban on vaping has provided a framework for addressing these emerging risks and reinforced confidence in the government’s ability to manage public health effectively.
Future Considerations
Moving forward, the enforcement framework will undergo fine-tuning over the next six months as the Ministry of Health explores legislative improvements. Mr Ong emphasised the necessity of adjusting policies to mitigate health risks associated with vaping effectively.
As Singapore seeks to strike a balance between harm reduction and public safety, the government remains committed to addressing substance abuse head-on while supporting youth rehabilitation initiatives.