Economists warn that the long-term health and economic detriments of vaping in Malaysia are projected to outweigh any short-term financial benefits. Dr Wency Bui Kher Thinng from Universiti Putra Malaysia stated that the limited economic gains from the vape industry are quickly overshadowed by increasing healthcare costs, reduced productivity, and the broader societal burden of illness and premature death. She highlighted the significant cost of treating vaping-related lung injuries (around RM150,000 per case for hospitalization alone), which excludes substantial indirect costs. Dr Bui advocated for a vaping ban with strong enforcement and public education.

Putra Business School economist Associate Prof Dr Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff echoed these concerns, emphasizing the hidden costs of losing productive individuals to vaping-related illnesses and the risk of a black market if a ban isn't well-enforced. He argued that public health should supersede the vape industry's economic contributions.

The Malaysian Vape Chamber of Commerce secretary-general, Ridhwan Rosli, pointed out the lack of a regulatory body to ensure the safety and quality of vape products in Malaysia, unlike in the US and UK. He suggested it's unfair to blame local businesses when the issue lies with unregulated wholesalers.