A man in his 20s who posted videos of himself vaping on social media in Singapore has been handed a hefty fine.
Singapore's Health Sciences Authority (HSA) fined rapper Krissy Kalifa, 25, 12,000 Singapore dollars ($8,900) for posting photos and videos of himself using e-cigarettes on social media, local media outlet CNA reported Wednesday.
Kalifa, known by his stage name "Rapperboya," was fined an additional 2,000 Singapore dollars ($1,500) after admitting to possessing three vaping devices shown in his posts, bringing his total penalty to approximately $10,400.
Authorities found that from November 2023 to September 2024, Kalifa repeatedly posted content showing himself vaping on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. The videos showed him using e-cigarettes both in public places and at his home.
An investigation was launched after social media users filed complaints with authorities. The HSA determined the posts constituted illegal promotion of prohibited tobacco products.
"This is the first time an individual has been prosecuted for posting images of themselves vaping on social media," the HSA said. "Online exposure can normalize e-cigarette use and send the wrong message, especially to young people."
From January to late November this year, authorities detected 38 cases of people posting vaping photos or videos on social media as part of a crackdown on e-cigarette promotion through digital platforms.
Under Singapore's tobacco laws, content that encourages e-cigarette use is classified as illegal tobacco advertising. Violations carry penalties of up to 10,000 Singapore dollars ($7,400), up to six months in prison, or both. Repeat offenders face double the penalties.
Revised regulations that took effect in September last year also strengthened penalties for possessing, using or purchasing e-cigarettes. Repeat violators are required to complete a rehabilitation program, and failure to comply can result in criminal prosecution.
"Singapore applies a zero-tolerance policy toward e-cigarettes," an HSA official said. "Indirect promotion through social media is also subject to law enforcement without exception."