TikTok creator RunnerKao recently had a lighthearted exchange with Health Minister Ong Ye Kung, where he taught the minister some popular Gen Z slang to get the anti-vaping message across to youths.
@runnerkaoRotting the brain of a minister be like..♬ original sound – Runner Kao
In the short clip, Minister Ong thanked RunnerKao for creating content to raise awareness about the dangers of vaping. He even joked that his own outreach efforts were “more for the ah peks.”
RunnerKao then jumped in with quick-fire Gen Z lingo, explaining how to make the message resonate with young people.
“Vaping is not sigma. You farm zero aura by vaping,” he told Minister Ong, adding that “aura is very important to young people. You are not lit if you vape. And vaping is not slay.”
RunnerKao wrapped up by thanking Minister Ong for learning all the “brain rot stuff,” before the two ended the exchange with a handshake.
The video has since garnered more than 82,000 views, more than 3,100 likes and over 1,000 shares.
In the comments, many netizens were amused to see RunnerKao teaching Minister Ong Gen Z slang.
Some netizens even joked positively about the minister using the Gen Z slang.
Source: TikTok
While some praised both parties for their efforts in raising awareness about vaping.
Source: TikTok
But their brief interaction also showed how Minister Ong is willing to pick up the language youths actually use, making the anti-vaping message more relatable for a younger audience.
Stop Vaping
Vaping has become a growing concern in Singapore. It was recently announced during the National Day Rally that vaping will be treated as a “drug issue,” with authorities stepping up enforcement against the use of e-vaporisers.
From 1 September 2025, etomidate and its analogues will be classified as Class C controlled drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA). Those caught possessing, using or purchasing e-vaporisers will face tougher penalties.
However, individuals who voluntarily seek help to quit will not be penalised. Those who need support can call the Health Promotion Board’s I Quit Programme at 1800 438 2000.
