Tobacco harm reduction in Asia: a diverse region in novel tobacco product control
Dr. B. Vicknasingam, Professor of Addiction Studies, will highlight Malaysia’s recent regulatory efforts. While the new law that governs nicotine vape sales, enforcement remains nascent. Meanwhile, unregulated products continue to flood the market, raising serious health concerns. Drawing parallels with Malaysia’s harm-reduced drug control policies, Dr. Vicknasingam will emphasize the importance of evidence-based regulation over blanket bans.
Dr. Willy Wong Chun-Hin, a psychiatrist based in Hong Kong, will warn of the unintended consequences of prohibition. In a market where vapes are banned, illicit drug distribution is on the rise. He argues that regulation —through safety standards, controlled sales, and integration into cessation programmes— offers a more effective and youth-protected path forward.
Dr. Fernando Fernandez, a healthcare practitioner from the Philippines, will share insights into the country’s pioneering legislation regulating vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products since 2022. The law not only protects minors but also empowers medical and dental professionals to promote cessation strategies rooted in harm reduction, marking a bold step forward in integrating science into public health policy.
Chair: Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh
Speakers:
- The case of Malaysia – Vicknasingam Balasingam Kasinather
- The case of Hong Kong – Chung Hin Willy Wong
- The case of Philippines – Fernando Fernandez
Speakers
