Cigarette and Vape Packaging to Be Standardised, Seen as Deterrent for New Smokers

The Ministry of Health is currently preparing a Draft Minister of Health Regulation (RPMK) which includes provisions for standardising cigarette packaging, including electronic cigarettes such as vapes. The drafting of these regulations follows up on Government Regulation Number 28 of 2024, which serves as the implementing regulation for Law Number 17 of 2023 on Health. Acting Director General of Disease Prevention at the Ministry, Dr Andi Saguni, assessed that tobacco product packaging has not merely functioned as a product wrapper. He stated that packaging design also acts as a marketing tool capable of attracting potential new consumers, especially young people. The primary objective of the standardised packaging regulation is not to prohibit legal products, but to reduce the visual appeal that has historically made tobacco products more attractive to children and adolescents. Cigarette packaging must not become a promotional medium that encourages the younger generation to start smoking. Under the proposed RPMK, producers will still be allowed to include brand identity and typefaces according to prevailing provisions. However, the colour scheme of the packaging will be standardised, and pictorial health warnings will still be required to appear clearly on the product packaging. According to the Ministry, this measure aims to ensure the public receives clearer information regarding the health risks of using tobacco products and electronic cigarettes. Andi said various international studies show that plain packaging policies have a positive impact in reducing interest in tobacco products. Furthermore, the policy is assessed as strengthening the effectiveness of the health messages displayed on the packaging. When attractive design elements are reduced, public attention will be more focused on the health messages printed on the packaging. This is one of the strategies proven effective in efforts to control tobacco consumption. The Ministry considers the high rate of child smokers to remain a serious issue requiring attention. Consequently, the government continues to push various tobacco consumption control measures as part of efforts to improve public health quality. Through this RPMK, the government hopes the implementation of the mandate of Government Regulation Number 28 of 2024 can proceed more clearly and effectively. The regulation is also expected to strengthen public health protection through stricter supervision of tobacco products and electronic cigarettes.