Islamabad: Rising tobacco and nicotine use among Pakistan’s youth, especially around educational institutions, emerged as the central concern at a national review session on tobacco control held by the Aurat Foundation in Islamabad.
Participants from Parliament, government departments, health organizations, and civil society warned that easy availability of cigarettes, vapes, nicotine pouches, and flavored tobacco near schools is creating a growing public health threat. The discussion also pointed to a noticeable increase in tobacco use among women, indicating a shifting trend.
The session called for stronger legislation, faster policy action, and strict enforcement to counter the rapid spread of emerging nicotine products. Speakers emphasized that existing laws remain poorly implemented due to procedural delays, weak monitoring, and limited coordination between federal and provincial bodies.
The need for clear parental awareness, community engagement, and better recognition of new nicotine products was highlighted as an essential part of early prevention. Officials noted that families and schools often remain unaware of modern products marketed to young people.
Technical briefings identified major enforcement gaps and policy loopholes that allow the tobacco industry to expand its reach. Participants noted that companies are increasingly using social media trends, entertainment content, and youth-focused marketing to promote vaping in urban areas.
Government representatives reaffirmed ongoing federal efforts to implement the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance 2002 and to tighten regulations where required. Provincial representatives also announced plans to introduce new resolutions to strengthen tobacco control.
Education sector officials raised alarms over the rise of nicotine products around private institutions and called for tougher regulatory checks. Regulatory authorities stressed the need for a broader social movement to counter tobacco use nationwide.
Closing the event, the Aurat Foundation reiterated its commitment to evidence-based advocacy, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term public awareness initiatives aimed at building a healthier, tobacco-free society.KUALA LUMPUR: Pakistan’s investments in Malaysia have grown to about $397 million, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was quoted as saying by The Star.
In a Facebook post after a call with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Malaysian prime minister said he welcomed more investments from Pakistan, especially in agriculture, petrochemicals and the biomass industry.
Anwar said he had spoken to Shehbaz on Monday evening and both reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Malaysia-Pakistan ties.
“Our friendship continues to deepen, opening new avenues for cooperation, particularly following my visit to Pakistan last October,” Anwar said in his Facebook post.
He also said Shehbaz is set to make his maiden visit to Malaysia in May this year and was looking forward to welcoming him on May 9.
“I pray that the blessings of Ramazan and Eidul Fitr bring renewed strength to the Malaysia-Pakistan partnership for the prosperity of our peoples,” Anwar said.
Anwar said their discussion also touched on the ongoing crisis in Gaza, noting that Israel’s violations of the ceasefire continue to undermine peace efforts.
“We exchanged views and coordinated efforts to support Gaza’s reconstruction and end the violence against Palestinians,” he said.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz, during the conversation with his Malaysian counterpart, extended warm Eidul Fitr greetings to him and the people of Malaysia, according to state-run APP.
During the call, PM Shehbaz recalled Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to Pakistan last October and expressed satisfaction with the strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.
He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with Malaysia in various sectors.
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