In late March, most of us were shocked when the authorities announced the exemption of liquid and gel nicotine from control under the Poisons Act 1952 to pave the way for tax on e-liquids with nicotine. It has derailed all our efforts to stop the use of tobacco and nicotine products. Our children are exposed to vape as it is no longer restricted and our generations to come will be addicted to this. Our hands are tied. However, we must continue to educate our young parents and children not to succumb to vape even though it will be available freely. We should not patronise any outlet that promotes vape or any products related to vape. We must be more aggressive in our campaign against vaping in schools. It is an uphill task, but we shall prevail, as the following good news tells us.

The High Court ruling on 8 April brought good news and encouragement that perseverance will eventually lead to victory. The judgement by Justice Datuk Noorin Badaruddin finally acknowledges what the Child Act 2001 and we have been “saying” all these years – that all children in Malaysia are protected and covered under the act and deserve our protection. So, I hope in a similar way that we will have another good news to rejoice in when we can get rid of tobacco and vape products from our shores. Perseverance pays.

Thank you for your continuous support. For my Muslim friends and colleagues, my Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri wishes to all of you.