Indonesia Backs BNN Proposal for Total Ban on Vapes

Indonesia Moves Toward Comprehensive Vape Prohibition

Kabarsaji.com – The Indonesian administration has given its support to a recommendation from the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) calling for an outright prohibition on electronic cigarette distribution. This proposal emerged after authorities observed a notable increase in substance abuse cases linked to vaping technology.

Government Endorsement and Implementation

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago confirmed that officials received clear direction to proceed with full restrictions. The minister shared his statement on Thursday, July 23, 2026:

“I instructed officials not to hesitate in implementing a complete prohibition on vapes.”

Djamari emphasized that e-cigarettes have become increasingly popular as a means for drug intake. According to his assessment, approximately 39.5 percent of individuals who use vaping devices have also consumed liquids containing narcotics through them. He cautioned that this unauthorized application of vaping equipment has escalated to concerning proportions.

“Therefore, anticipative steps are needed through tighter regulations, heightened oversight, and policy studies,” the minister explained.

BNN’s Formal Recommendations

Following the minister’s directive, BNN was assigned to coordinate conversations regarding enhanced supervision of electronic cigarette commerce, including consideration of a comprehensive national prohibition. BNN Chief Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto confirmed that the agency presented an official recommendation for total vape elimination to Commission III of the House of Representatives.

“[We also proposed] a seminar on vape regulation and governance involving various stakeholders,” Suyudi stated.

Health Ministry Action and Laboratory Findings

The Ministry of Health responded by designating etomidate, a compound commonly mixed into vape solutions, as a Category III narcotic. This designation appears in Minister of Health Regulation No. 15/2025.

Earlier findings from the BNN Narcotics Laboratory Center revealed that 23.97 percent of 438 vape liquid samples tested positive for illegal substances. Head of the laboratory center Supianto made these observations at BNN Headquarters on Wednesday, February 18, 2026:

“We recommended that vapes ultimately be banned, as in other countries.”

Jihan Ristiyanti contributed to this article