SINGAPORE: Since March, students caught for the first time buying, using or possessing vapes are being referred to the Health Sciences Authority ( HSA ) and may be fined up to S$ 2, 000 ( US$ 1, 480 ).
The new measure, which aims to deter youths from vaping, was made known by the Health Ministry ( MOH) and HSA in a joint press release on Tuesday ( Apr 9 ).
The Ministry of Education ( MOE), according to the government’s announcement in December, will inform parents and seize the prohibited product. Additionally, schools will set up appropriate punitive measures, such as a suspension or punishment for boys.
The MOE director said that “recalcitrant criminals may be referred to HSA, which perhaps fine them.”
Schools and higher education ( IHLs ) referred about 250 cases to the HSA in the first quarter of this year. When kids are arrested for vaping offenses outside of institutions, MOE will be notified.
IHLs have been reviewing restrictions, including those that require community service or remedial work purchases.
Kids from automatic universities who are caught selling or selling vapes may also have their dormitory privileges suspended.
According to HSA and MOH, schools and IHLs will continue to conduct regular detection and enforcement operations through campus patrols and domestic reporting channels.  ,
Where correct, HSA and intelligent colleges may also carry out joint activities.
” For students who are caught vaping, in addition to the penalty imposed by HSA, schools and IHLs will continue to mete out consequences through existing disciplinary frameworks, such as suspension or caning ( for boys in schools )”, said the authorities.
” Individuals who engage in smoking will also be placed on withdrawal assistance programs where counselors will guide them through their journey to cessation.”
CNA reported in December last year that some , boys were starting to pick up the habit , of vaping from as early as major class, with buyers targeting younger people.  ,
In addition to police work, institutions and IHLs are working with the Health Promotion Board ( HPB) to “amplify anti- smoking information” in educational materials and preventive programs.
Additionally, they are raising knowledge of the risks of vaping and offering assistance for individuals who have been caught using the drug.
These programs include QuitLine, a tel- counseling service, as well as on- web-site counselling by Student Health Advisors.
They also learn about quitting smoking and smoking, as well as how to manage their withdrawal symptoms.
Next year, about 2, 350 students took part in these programs, of which 38 per share have either reduced or quit smoking and/or smoking one fortnight after counseling.
” MOE, along with HPB, has communicated to staff and students on Singapore’s firmer position against smoking and action- up in protection. Families have also been informed”, said the government.