Electronic cigarettes, commonly known as vapes, have become a device used by some members of society as an alternative to traditional cigarettes. Containing nearly the same ingredients as traditional cigarettes, particularly nicotine, electronic cigarettes also include aerosol, propylene glycol or glycerol, and artificial flavouring.

Just as society is constantly reminded about the dangers of smoking, many still take a complacent attitude toward its consequences. Various initiatives have been introduced to expose the public to this ‘silent killer’.

There is no longer an excuse for individuals to claim ignorance about the dangers of smoking – whether tobacco or electronic – especially now that information is readily available at our fingertips.

Today's generations, such as Generation Z and Generation Alpha, have become a source of profit for vape manufacturers and the primary target of the growing and evolving vape industry.

The increasing accessibility of these products allows young people to obtain them easily, often without their parents' or guardians' knowledge. We now see vapes hanging around the necks of young individuals as if they were a basic necessity for survival.

The term “smoking” is often associated with “stress”. But why is this connection frequently made by smokers? Many claim that vaping helps them feel calmer and alleviates the stress of daily life. However, research contradicts this notion, showing that smokers – particularly young ones – are more likely to experience heightened anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances and addiction. It also negatively impacts brain development and cognitive function.

So, where is the peace of mind that vaping supposedly brings, if its effects are only temporary while the suffering lasts a lifetime?

Vaping – an activity that causes harm

Nevertheless, some individuals continue to smoke even while socialising, easily going through several cigarettes at a time and spending hundreds or even thousands of ringgit in the process. Vape has been promoted as a better alternative to tobacco cigarettes, but that does not justify young people participating in this debate.

The real question is, should young people willingly engage in an activity that harms them, knowing the consequences they may face in the future?

It is no secret that electronic cigarettes now come in various designs and forms to attract young users. Cases of vape devices disguised as markers and UHU glue sticks, which once went viral in Malaysia, highlight how manufacturers use bright colours and catchy marketing slogans to lure underage users. This issue should already serve as a major red flag, signalling the need for greater vigilance.

The branding and advertising strategies used not only appeal to young people but also distort their judgment in distinguishing right from wrong.

The rise of vaping has introduced a new trend replacing tobacco smoking – not just among adults, but also among teenagers and even children, despite the government's age restriction of 21 and above. This is no longer just about age limits and legal enforcement; it has evolved into a social issue affecting the very generation that will lead the future.

Many young people see vaping as a way to gain social acceptance, a means to fulfil their need for “belonging”.

It is undeniable that young people, particularly teenagers, shift their sense of autonomy from family to peer groups. Their involvement in risky behaviours like vaping stems from various reasons, including the fear of being left out.

If we examine this issue from a psychological perspective, many young people are still in the process of discovering their identity and purpose in life. A single mistake in this phase can have lasting consequences for their future. They often seek validation from their peers, making them more likely to engage in behaviours normalised within their social circles – such as smoking.

Take, for example, the common Malay proverb: “Melentur buluh biarlah dari rebungnya" (Bend a bamboo while it is still a shoot). This highlights how children learn behaviours through modelling and imitation. Just as a crab cannot teach its young to walk straight, children who grow up seeing their parents smoke may perceive it as normal.

However, we cannot solely blame parental upbringing for risky behaviours among youth. Young people are also influenced by their social environment, particularly the fear of social exclusion.

Impact of smoking not limited to smokers alone

In many public spaces, such as eateries, individuals of all ages can be seen smoking without considering the harmful effects on those around them. The impact of smoking is not limited to the smoker alone – it also endangers the health of bystanders who become “second-hand smokers” due to the irresponsible actions of others. Imagine thick clouds of tobacco or vape smoke filling the air in a mamak restaurant, where families with young children are trying to enjoy their meal undisturbed. Isn’t this an unfair burden placed on non-smokers?

This issue is not just about young people vaping for fun; even older individuals continue to use vapes for various reasons while disregarding the harm they cause to others. If this behaviour is normalised in front of young people, what will happen to future generations?

The decision to quit smoking requires two crucial factors: self-awareness and self-efficacy. A person must first believe they are capable of change.

However, awareness does not develop overnight. Once the damage is done, there is no turning back time to undo the consequences.

This is why family support – whether from parents, siblings or other relatives – is essential for individuals trying to quit smoking, be it tobacco or vape. Encouragement from loved ones can provide them with a renewed sense of self-worth, reinforcing their belief that change is possible.

-- BERNAMA

Farah Najwa Mohamad Marzuki is a Trainee Counsellor from the Department of Educational Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Education, Universiti Malaya.