KUALA LUMPUR, June 12 -- The Pahang government has officially banned the use of electronic cigarettes or vape within the state.

State Islamic Affairs, Rural Development and Orang Asli Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Seri Syed Ibrahim Syed Ahmad said the ban follows a fatwa issued by the Pahang Mufti Department, according to a report published by Buletin TV3 today.

The fatwa was formally communicated to the Pahang State Legal Adviser's Office on March 3 via a memorandum submitted by the Menteri Besar's Office addressing the growing use of vape among the public.

"The state government took note of the fatwa, and it was brought to the Pahang State Executive Council (Exco) meeting on May 14, where it received the royal assent of the Sultan...