Etomidate is now classified as a Group II narcotic

One of the reasons BNN is pushing for stricter regulations is because etomidate it has now been included in Group II narcotics. Normatively, Regulation of the Minister of Health Number 15 of 2025 concerning Amendments to the Classification of Narcotics was stipulated on November 21, 2025 and shall come into effect on November 28, 2025. Suyudi had previously also asserted that after the reclassification, law enforcement against liquid vape containing etomidate can use the regime of the Narcotics Law, no longer relying solely on the Health Law, which is considered to have lighter sanctions.

From a law enforcement perspective, this change in etomidate's status is important because it gives authorities a stronger basis to take action against manufacturers, distributors, and other parties who use vape as a means of distributing narcotics. Therefore, the proposed ban on vape, which is now being pushed by BNN, is not only framed as a health issue, but also as a response to the development of new modes of narcotics crime.

BNN cites the trend of prohibition in ASEAN countries

In its argumentation, BNN also mentioned the firmness of a number of ASEAN countries. A more detailed regional overview comes from WHO, which states that besides Vietnam, countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, and Thailand have banned e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Brunei Darussalam reportedly prohibits e-cigarettes, while Malaysia will impose a ban starting 2026. This comparative data reinforces the National Narcotics Board's (BNN) argument that the issue of vapes can no longer be viewed solely as a tobacco policy, but also as a public health and narcotics security issue.

Whether the proposed total ban will be accepted by the House of Representatives remains to be seen. However, what is clear is that Draft Law on Narcotics and Psychotropics has indeed been included 2026 National Legislation Program (Prolegnas) and is targeted for completion this year. This means that the debate regarding vapes is likely to enter the core of the Bill's discussion, especially regarding whether Indonesia will choose a prohibition approach, strict restrictions, or special supervision of liquids and devices.