Thailand Enforces Strict Measures to Tackle E-Cigarette Use in Schools
In response to the rising trend of e-cigarette use among students, Thailand’s Ministry of Education has introduced a series of stringent measures aimed at curbing the spread of vaping within schools. The initiative follows concerns over the increasing number of young people turning to e-cigarettes, despite the country’s long-standing ban on the sale and import of such products. The use of e-cigarettes among Thai youth has grown at an alarming rate, with recent surveys indicating an 18.6 per cent increase in student vaping. This surge has raised fears among health officials and educators, as e-cigarettes are often perceived as a safer alternative to traditional smoking, despite growing evidence of their…
Japan Introduces Entry Fee for Mount Fuji Hikers
Beginning in the summer of 2025, climbers aiming to ascend Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji will encounter new regulations designed to address environmental concerns and manage increasing tourist numbers. A mandatory entry fee of 4,000 yen (approximately RM120) will be imposed on all individuals using the mountain’s four principal trails during the peak climbing season, which spans from July to September. This initiative represents a significant shift from previous policies. Historically, the Yoshida Trail in Yamanashi Prefecture required a voluntary contribution of 1,000 yen, later increased to a mandatory 2,000 yen fee. The other three trails in Shizuoka Prefecture—Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya—were accessible without charge. The recent decision by local authorities…