KUALA LUMPUR: The Education Ministry has rolled out several measures to address vape-related issues among children and students.
The ministry, in a statement, said these measures would include the 'Five Minute Anti-Cigarette/Vape Programme (Program Lima (5) Minit Antirokok/Vape)'.
The effort will be implemented during assemblies, alternate classes, group guidance sessions, anti-smoking/vape campaigns, lectures, exhibitions as well as through curriculum and co-curricular activities in schools.
It is being conducted in collaboration with the state education department, district education office, schools and government agencies such as the police and the National Anti-Drugs Agency (Nada).
"The programme aims to instill awareness among students, as well as to form a sense of identity and resilience.
"The ministry is also collaborating with the Health Ministry in implementing the IMFree programme for primary school students from Year One to Six in 636 pilot schools and it has been expanded this year and beyond," said the statement.
The IMFree programme focuses on educational and smoking prevention modules in primary schools and pre-schools.
The aim is to ensure that those born after 2009 to never pick up the habit.
"Among the objectives of the IMFree programme are to provide students with knowledge on the dangers of smoking, and to train students to be agents of information to friends and family on the dangers of smoking."
The ministry said it has always reminded the state education departments, district education offices and schools on the Circular No. 17/2015: Ban on the Use of Electronic Cigarettes or Vapes in Schools.
"In addition, through the Special Circular No. 8/2001: Strengthening Discipline Management in Schools, principals and headmasters are advised to take effective measures to strengthen discipline management and counselling in schools."
The ministry said it remained committed to implement preventive education programmes related to disciplinary issues as a continuous effort to provide awareness, skills, knowledge and guidance to students.