Local influencer Kao Rong Sheng may be known for his funny videos now, but he’s also using his platform for something more serious, which is to persuade young people not to pick up vaping.
@runnerkaonot another video♬ original sound – Runner Kao
Once a social worker, the 42-year-old now regularly goes live on social media to share heartfelt advice, hoping to steer youths away from the dangers of electronic cigarettes. His sincere efforts have not gone unnoticed. Some young followers have promised to quit vaping, and even parents have reached out to thank him.
In an interview with 8world News, Kao shared that his past experience as a social worker exposed him to many troubled youths, including those who had taken up vaping without fully understanding its effects.
“You’ll see them vaping outside malls, at HDB void decks, even near schools,” he said.
“But many of them don’t really know what they’re doing.”
To him, it’s not just a health issue. It’s also about peer pressure, lack of guidance and struggles with self-identity. That’s why Kao hopes to shift their mindset. He wants them to think carefully before ever picking up a vape, and not feel pressured to fit in.
As a father of two primary school children, Kao said he feels even more motivated to protect the next generation.
“I just want them to pause and think before they start. There should be no pressure.”
Since 2020, Kao has been working full-time in content creation. He is now part of SGAG, a popular local media platform, and has more than 300,000 followers across Instagram and TikTok.
Through livestreams, he speaks directly to young people, reminding them,
“You don’t need to vape to look cool or to fit in. You are already special just the way you are.”
Kao added that he doesn’t scold or preach. He simply wants to be a big brother figure, guiding youths away from bad influences and giving them the support they may lack elsewhere.
His efforts are paying off. Besides positive messages from youths, some have even made verbal promises to stop vaping. A few parents have personally thanked him. To Gao, these moments are what keep him going.
“I just hope my kids, and others, can grow up in a better future,” he said.
