Ong Ye Kung on stepping up war against e-vaporisers and etomidate abuse

While Singapore has listed etomidate in the Misuse of Drugs Act, the Ministry of Health (MOH) is reviewing the longer-term legislation needed to adapt to the new landscape of substance abuse. The new legislation will provide legal powers to enforce against e-vaporisers of all kinds, provide for mandatory rehabilitation and supervision regimes, and set appropriate penalties for users and suppliers. Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said MOH plans to enact the new legislation in the first quarter of 2026 to continue to support the whole-of-government approach to protect Singaporeans from the harmful effects caused by e-vaporisers. Replying to MPs’ questions in parliament on Monday (Sep 22), Mr Ong also updated the House on the measures taken so far against e-vaporisers and etomidate abuse. These include curbing upstream import and supply, enhancing border enforcement and strengthening public vigilance, rehabilitation programmes and preventive education.