KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry is set to take action against a new trend of products called "energy sticks" that are targeted at children.

       Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said they had become aware of the potential sale of the device after receiving multiple complaints and alerts through social media.

       "I have personally received multiple direct alerts on it (energy sticks).

       "I have already informed the director-general and deputy director on the issue and we will take action soon," he said during a press conference after officiating the Liver Cancer Awareness Day ceremony at Komune Living & Wellness here on Sunday (Feb 4).

       His response comes after local public health group Public Health Malaysia voiced concerns over the "energy sticks" being sold in Malaysia and its rising popularity among minors in particular, in a Facebook post on Saturday (Jan 3).

       The apparent local advertisements for the products feature a two-pronged nasal inhaler filled with oils, mint, or camphor.

       The products were supposedly being sold for as low as RM2.50 with its low price and ease of use being heavily aimed at children.

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       The products had already exploded in popularity among school children in China with it growing in use among both secondary and primary students, reported South China Morning Post on Nov 8 last year.