BPKN supports vape ban, highlights BNN findings

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Consumer Protection Agency (BPKN) has stated its full support for the proposal to ban electronic cigarettes or vapes in Indonesia, following findings by the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) indicating the misuse of vapes as a medium for consuming harmful substances, including narcotics. BPKN Chairman Mufti Mubarok said in Jakarta on Saturday that consumer protection must be the state’s top priority, especially when a product is proven to pose risks to public health and safety. “BNN’s findings serve as a loud alarm for all of us. Vapes are no longer just an alternative to cigarettes but have evolved into a medium prone to misuse for harmful substances. This clearly threatens consumers, especially the younger generation,” Mufti stated. According to him, the proliferation of uncontrolled vape circulation, both in terms of content and distribution, opens up significant loopholes for illegal practices. BPKN assesses that weak oversight of this product could cause massive harm to consumers, both in terms of health and economy. “This is not just a health issue, but also a matter of consumer protection and the future of the nation’s generation. If decisive steps are not taken immediately, we risk facing a broader public health crisis,” he added. In line with this, BPKN also encourages the government to take concrete steps, including considering a total ban on the circulation of vapes in Indonesia. In addition, strengthened regulations, increased oversight, and massive public education on the risks of vape use are needed. BPKN also calls for synergy across ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Health, law enforcement authorities, and BNN, to firmly address violations related to the misuse of the product. “The state must not lag behind the circulation of products that have the potential to damage society. Consumer protection must be present in a real way through firm policies that favour public safety,” he said. With support from various parties, BPKN hopes that the vape ban initiative can become part of broader efforts to maintain the quality of public health and protect Indonesian consumers from high-risk products.