JAKARTA — Indonesia’s National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has proposed a complete ban on the distribution and sale of electronic cigarettes and e-liquids under the ongoing revision of the Narcotics and Psychotropics Bill (RUU Narkotika). The initiative follows mounting national concern over the widespread misuse of vaping devices as delivery mechanisms for illicit substances.

During a parliamentary hearing with Commission III of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), BNN Head Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto presented central laboratory findings from liquid vape samples seized across the country. Tests identified dangerous adulterants, including synthetic cannabinoids, methamphetamine, and etomidate—a potent surgical anesthetic recently classified as a Schedule II narcotic under Ministry of Health Regulation No. 15/2025. Law enforcement authorities warned that inhaling uncontrolled doses of etomidate via e-cigarettes poses severe health risks, including sudden physical collapse.

Suyudi emphasized that restricting liquid substances alone is insufficient, comparing vape hardware to drug paraphernalia like bongs. "If the consumption device itself is banned, the distribution of liquid narcotics can be suppressed far more effectively," he stated, pointing out that several ASEAN neighbors—including Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam—have already instituted complete bans on electronic cigarettes.

The proposal has received strong backing from key lawmakers and senior officials. DPR RI Commission III Vice Chairman Ahmad Sahroni endorsed inserting the ban into the Narcotics Law revision, highlighting that e-cigarettes are increasingly used as a cover for distributing new psychoactive substances (NPS). Meanwhile, Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago confirmed that the government welcomes BNN's recommendation and is evaluating comprehensive regulatory measures to curb narcotic-related e-cigarette abuse.