The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) conducted laboratory tests on 341 samples of electronic cigarette or vape liquids and found 12 samples containing class 1 narcotics, indicating potential drug distribution.
The tests were carried out between July and September 2025 in several regions.
The findings have raised concerns, particularly as young people make up the majority of e-cigarette users.
Professor Susi Ari Kristina from the Faculty of Pharmacy at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM Pharmacy) expressed serious concern, noting the ease of access to vape products.
“I believe this finding serves as an important alarm for all relevant stakeholders such as customs, the Ministry of Health, and others to begin considering tighter regulations on vape products,” she said on Friday (Sep. 26).
According to Professor Kristina, vape liquids can serve as a medium for introducing any substance, including narcotics.
While regulations already exist, the main issue lies in implementation, as many rules remain poorly socialized.
Furthermore, the normalization of vaping, which is often perceived not as dangerous but rather as a modern and enjoyable thing, has added to the challenge.
“Looking at other countries that enforce strict policies on vape products, the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) should take on a new role in monitoring products, their distribution, and other related aspects,” she added.
Professor Kristina highlighted the public’s perception of vaping, noting that many people still believe e-cigarettes are less harmful than tobacco products.
“That does not mean they are harmless,” she emphasized.
She further explained that narcotics carry addictive risks, leading individuals to seek any possible way to obtain the effects of the substances.
Professor Kristina also pointed out that there are groups actively working to reduce restrictions and regulations, hinder implementation, and influence policies, which she considered highly concerning.
“Moreover, the combination of nicotine and flavorings in vape liquids creates a strong sense of dependence,” she noted.
As a preventive effort, Professor Kristina suggested starting educational initiatives on a smaller scale.
She emphasized the importance of raising awareness among university students, particularly in health-related fields, so they can provide counseling to help individuals quit smoking or vaping, as well as offer other preventive health education.
“We also extend this to mental health because vaping can sometimes serve as an escape for some people,” she concluded.
Author: Alena Damaris
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Illustration: Freepik