An NGO which represents vape traders will file court injunctions against states which are planning to ban the sale of vape.

Pertubuhan Ikatan Usahawan Kecil dan Sederhana Malaysia (Ikhlas) president Mohd Ridzuan Abdullah said they will do so to stop Kelantan and Johor from taking action against them.

“We will take the matter to court and claim for damages for giving a short amount of time to vape traders (to stop selling vape).

“We will also ensure traders will be able to conduct businesses as usual,” he said in a joint press conference with vape traders in Kuala Lumpur today.

Ridzuan also confirmed that the injunctions will be filed next week.

Meanwhile, vape trader representative Hafiz Rahman ( photo ) expressed his disappointment with the states, which he said are only trying to close down the industry.

Hafiz said it was more disheartening when cigarettes are still sold in the market.

“I’m sad with what has happened to our industry because we have been doing business since 2009. Some have invested millions into their businesses.

“It is clear cigarettes contain nicotine but they can be sold and bought everywhere," he pointed out.

Hafiz urged the government as well as the prime minister to look into the plight faced by vape traders.

The Kelantan government last Wednesday announced that the sale of vape will be banned come Jan 1, 2016.

Johor’s ruler Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar last month banned vape in the southern state and stated that he wants outlets to close down by Jan 1 next year.