Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Dangers of Freely Sold Whip Pink Highlighted by BNN Amid Calls for Regulation

| Source: DETIK | Regulation
Nitrous oxide (N₂O), commonly known as Whip Pink, has come under the scrutiny of the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) as public concern over its misuse grows. The wave of abuse has prompted the government to move towards formulating regulations to address the dangers posed by the substance.

BNN regards Whip Pink as a vehicle for the circulation of a new type of narcotic when misused. According to the agency, the misuse of Whip Pink is particularly popular among teenagers.

**Sold at Entertainment Venues**

BNN chief Suyudi Ario Seto drew attention to the phenomenon of Whip Pink circulation among young people. He noted that the substance is being sold freely at entertainment venues.

"This includes what is currently a hot topic — N₂O gas, known as Whip Pink, which is actually intended for food preparation, coffee flavouring, and so forth," said Suyudi at the opening of a focus group discussion on the Regulation of Electronic Cigarettes (Vapes) and Restrictions on the Use of Dinitrogen Oxide (Whip Pink), held at BNN headquarters in East Jakarta on Wednesday (18 February 2026).

However, the substance — which is legitimately used for medical purposes (anaesthesia) and as a food additive — is frequently misused to achieve a brief sensation of euphoria.

"Young people use Whip Pink to get a momentary feeling of intoxication or a 'high'," said Suyudi.

He further revealed the existence of package-based sales systems at entertainment venues that include whipping as one of the items, all without clear regulation.

"What is even more alarming, and frankly absurd, is that Whip Pink is being sold freely inside entertainment venues. Some operate a package system — you walk in and you're given whipping. It's insane that it has reached that point," Suyudi said.

**Dangers of Whip Pink Misuse**

The former Banten regional police chief warned that the recreational use of Whip Pink is extremely dangerous, with potentially fatal neurological consequences.

"Our young people use it to stimulate themselves, seeking a high, seeking the euphoric fantasy they hope will produce a laughing effect and so on," said Suyudi.

"But clearly, the effects do not stop there. They also have an impact on health and can even result in death," he continued.

**Plans to Draft Regulations**

Suyudi urged all government bodies and relevant stakeholders to swiftly formulate strict regulations to limit the distribution of Whip Pink outside its intended purpose. The aim is to establish an appropriate legal framework for enforcement action in the field.

"This must also encompass anticipatory measures against the circulation of whipping," he added.

Suyudi affirmed the government's determination to protect future generations from the grip of narcotics, particularly new forms of drugs delivered as vapour, such as the misuse of Whip Pink.

"Our struggle today is a struggle for the civilisation of the future. We do not wish to bequeath a generation that resembles zombies as a result of narcotics camouflaged in the form of vapour," he concluded.
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