Majority of Malaysians support higher cigarette taxes, survey finds 

Strongest support comes from those aged 21 to 30, with over 84% in favour, while opposition to tax hikes is highest among respondents aged 51 to 60 

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (MNTV) – Two-thirds of Malaysians support higher cigarette taxes, provided they are implemented in a moderate and predictable manner, according to a survey conducted by the Merdeka Center. 

The findings, as reported by the Malay Mail, revealed that 66% of Malaysians back an increase in cigarette taxes, while 25% oppose the move, and 9% remain unsure. 

The strongest support came from those aged 21 to 30, with over 84% in favour, while opposition to tax hikes was highest among respondents aged 51 to 60.

The survey also found significant differences in support based on gender and smoking status. Among women, 72 % supported the tax hike, compared to 61% of men. Opposition was higher among men, at 33%, compared to 16 % among women.

Additionally, 65% of respondents supported implementing a multi-year tax calendar for cigarette excise hikes, allowing for moderate and predictable increases. Among respondents aged 18 to 20, 78 % favoured the idea, with the highest support seen in the 21 to 30 age group (80%). 

Support decreased with age, falling to 53% among those aged 60 and above.

Women were more supportive of a multi-year tax calendar, with 66% in favour compared to 64% of men. 

By smoking status, former smokers were the most supportive, with 70 % backing the policy, while current smokers showed the least support at 60%.

A majority of Malaysians (79%) also agreed that curbing illicit trade would help reduce crime and increase tax revenue for essential services such as health, education, and infrastructure. 

The survey was conducted by the Merdeka Center between March 27 and April 17, 2025, involving 1,210 Malaysians aged 18 and above.