{
  "id": 15539520,
  "title": "Sarawak deputy premier warns of increasing threats of vaping",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/19/sarawak-deputy-premier-warns-of-increasing-threats-of-vaping",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-19T02:05:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Vibes",
    "slug": "the-vibes",
    "url": "https://www.thevibes.com/articles/news/128507/sarawak-deputy-premier-warns-of-increasing-threats-of-vaping"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian has expressed concern over the growing issue of vaping, warning that it has become more problematic than initially intended as a tool to reduce tobacco consumption. Vaping, initially introduced as an alternative for smokers, has now presented its own set of public health challenges.\n\nDr Sim highlighted that while vaping was initially meant to decrease tobacco use, some individuals have become so heavily reliant on it that their habit has worsened compared to traditional smoking. He emphasized that the situation now warrants urgent attention to address this emerging problem.\n\nThe deputy premier advised the public to exercise caution when using health-related technologies, particularly when such use can lead to habits that are challenging to break. He stressed that with the increasing prevalence of vaping, people must be extra vigilant and cautious with such technologies.\n\nHealth education and public awareness are crucial components in this battle against vaping, according to Dr Sim. Strengthening health education will ensure that the community comprehends the importance of avoiding health-compromising habits. The Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government endorsed this approach, emphasizing that disease prevention is a collective effort involving individuals, families, and the community, in addition to government support.\n\nRecommended preventive measures include maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, undergoing regular health check-ups, and avoiding smoking. These actions should not be confined to specific health campaigns but should become an integral part of daily life.\n\nDr Sim reiterated that consistent, sustained efforts are vital to ensure that the people of Sarawak can fully enjoy the state's development while maintaining optimal health and well-being.",
  "summary": "THE use of electronic cigarettes, or vapes, has become a serious public health concern and requires urgent attention as part of efforts to protect public health, said Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian. He noted that although vaping was ini...",
  "key_points": [
    "Sarawak Deputy Premier warns vaping poses growing threat.",
    "Initially intended to reduce tobacco use, now worsens reliance.",
    "Urgent public health education needed to combat vaping."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The shift from tobacco reduction to new nicotine dependency signals that vaping has transformed from a potential smoking cessation tool into a distinct and urgent public health challenge.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}