(Nov 17): The Small and Medium Enterprises Traders Association (IKHLAS) which has taken up the cause of vape retailers amid a crackdown by the Health Ministry on the industry wants anti-graft authorities to probe the ministry for conflict of interest.

IKHLAS president Mohd Ridzuan Abdullah, who led a demonstration outside the Prime Minister's Department in Putrajaya today, said the actions of the Health Ministry in raiding vape stores and issuing statements were made in pursuit of its own interests.

"The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has to take the Health Ministry to task. We are giving a stern warning," Ridzuan told the media today after handing a memorandum to the Prime Minister's Office with an appeal to intervene in the Health Ministry's actions.

He said IKHLAS had already engaged two lawyers to take legal action against parties that made false and damaging statements about the local vape industry. Some of these claims include allegations that locally-made vape oils were mixed with drugs.

"Anyone issuing a false statement, we will take them to court.

"This involves the sentiments of the Malays. Where are the rights of the Malays? They claim there is ganja (in vape), they just want to destroy the rice bowls of local entrepreneurs," Ridzuan said.

"If there is proof, show it, do not make up stories. We have to protect the pride of our race. Don't say we use ganja and other drugs. Is there no shame in insulting your own race?"

Ridzuan previously warned that the government's actions against vape sellers could cost the ruling Barisan Nasional "1 million votes", as a significant number of those in the business were Malays.

Putrajaya is looking at how to regulate the vape industry given its growing popularity among those seeking an alternative to smoking, as well as non-smokers who vape as a lifestyle trend.

The Health Ministry has expressed concern over vape oils that contain nicotine and which can only be sold under regulations, but industry players say not all vape oils have nicotine. – The Malaysian Insider