KUALA LUMPUR, July 29 -- Malaysia's vape retail industry is calling for improved enforcement of existing regulations rather than a complete prohibition on the sale of electronic cigarettes, arguing that a blanket ban would not address the root problem.

The Malaysia Retail Electronic Cigarette Association (MRECA) contends that the real issue behind vape misuse lies in inadequate enforcement against illegal operators, not the presence of licensed retailers.

In a statement, the association demanded stronger government action, including proactive raids on unlicensed outlets, stricter monitoring of online sales platforms, and harsher penalties for those who violate the law.

MRECA president Datuk Adzwan Ab Manas insisted that misuse occurs p...