PBNU Advocates Strict Regulations and Education on Vapes, Not a Total Ban
The Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) is urging the government to prioritise an approach based on education and strict regulatory supervision to address the misuse of electronic cigarettes or vapes as a medium for distributing narcotics. PBNU assesses that the policies adopted must be proportional and based on public benefit.
PBNU Chairman, Ahmad Fahrur Rozi (Gus Fahrur), stressed that if vapes are proven to be a widespread means of drug abuse that threatens the younger generation, then tight restrictions up to a ban could serve as a preventive measure in line with the principle of protecting life (hifz al-nafs).
“However, if their use remains within legal bounds and is not misused, what is more encouraged is education, supervision, and regulation, not a total ban,” said Gus Fahrur in Jakarta on Thursday (9/4/2026).
The discourse on banning vapes has resurfaced after security forces uncovered the distribution of the narcotic etomidate, which is consumed via electronic cigarette devices. Based on Minister of Health Regulation Number 15 of 2025, etomidate has officially been classified as a Schedule II narcotic since 21 November 2025.
Gus Fahrur opined that the government does not need to include an absolute ban on vapes in the Narcotics Bill. Instead, he advocates for specific regulations to close loopholes in the modus operandi of misusing prohibited substances in those devices.
“I think there is no need to ban vapes in the Narcotics Bill, but rather to push for stricter specific regulations on the modus operandi of using vapes for drugs,” he added.
PBNU emphasises that since vapes are currently an official and legal product sold in Indonesia, supervision of distribution must be the primary focus. This aims to prevent the devices from being used as a medium for narcotics distribution by irresponsible parties.
This step is deemed more effective than generalising against the legal industry. With appropriate regulations, the government is expected to ensure that vape use remains within the legal framework without neglecting aspects of protecting society from the dangers of narcotics.
Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) is conducting an in-depth study regarding the proposal from the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) to ban the circulation of electronic cigarettes or vapes in Indonesia.
BNN and vape associations affirm that legal, tax-stamped products are free of narcotics. Misuse of drug-infused liquids is only found in the black market.
Perpetrators insert harmful substances into vape fillings to deceive officers and the public.
Gus Fahrur provides full support for all efforts to eradicate drugs.