Vape is more risky than tobacco.

KUCHING, Oct 18: The use of vape which was originally introduced as an alternative to reducing tobacco use is now raising new public health concerns.

Deputy Prime Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said that society should be more aware of such technological developments and not consider them as a health risk-free option.

"Originally, vape was introduced as an alternative to reducing tobacco use, however, there were parties who abused its use to a negative effect.

"Vape, which was originally intended to help deal with tobacco addiction, is now causing greater concern, even worse than the effects of tobacco.

He said this while addressing the closing ceremony of Sarawak State Level 2026 Malaysia Month Sihat Sejahtera (BMSS) in Kuching Sentral, today.

He, who is also the Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government of Sarawak, raised the issue while stressing the importance of raising public awareness about factors that can affect health.

He believes that efforts to cultivate a healthy lifestyle should also include awareness of the daily habits and choices that can affect self-reliance.

In this regard, he also stressed the importance of maintaining cleanliness in both rural and urban areas following reports of dengue deaths in Sarawak this year.

Meanwhile, Dr Sim also urged the people of Sarawak, including PMs and government officials, to regularly check their blood pressure and ensure that reading is always monitored as a shared responsibility in healthcare.

"We want to make Sarawak an example, not only known as a shopping centre but also for ensuring that the management and staff have normal blood pressure.

"I could only donate a blood pressure machine, but everyone needs to have their blood pressure checked every month because data shows that one third of the population is at risk for high blood pressure.

"The city council can also take this step. If there is a staff member who has high blood pressure on an ongoing basis, that should be taken into consideration", he explained. - TVS