The Malaysia government requires importers of e-cigarette production to apply for SIRIM certification

On August 3, 2022, the Malaysian federal government announced the “E-cigarette Product Description (Certification and Marking) Order 2022”, which clarifies that from August 3, 2022, e-cigarettes, whether locally manufactured or imported from abroad, must apply for SIRIM certification and marking.

According to the Decree, sirim certification marks shall be affixed to electronic atomization equipment, their spare parts or other device containers so that users can easily see them. The SIRIM certification mark indicates that the device meets safety standards and can be used normally.

Any person or company that violates this act will face financial or criminal penalties. Companies that violate the ordinance will be fined up to RM200,000. For repeat offenders, the fine can be up to RM500,000. If convicted, individuals will also be liable to a fine of up to RM100,000, imprisonment for up to 3 years and up to, or both. Repeat offenders will be liable to a fine of up to RM250,000, imprisonment for up to 5 years and up, or both.

A study by the Malaysian E-Cigarette Chamber of Commerce (MVCC) shows that Malaysia’s e-cigarette industry is worth RM2.27 billion and the e-cigarette industry has become a thriving industry in Malaysia, accounting for 42% of the entire tobacco market – surpassing illegal cigarettes (37% share) and legal cigarettes (21%) . As the number of industry participants increases, the e-cigarette industry in Malaysia will continue to grow.