GEORGE TOWN: The Consumers' Association of Penang (CAP) has reminded the Health Ministry not to heed proposals or advice from the commercial industry on the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024.
Its senior education officer N.V. Subbarow said the Act is a long-awaited law that will protect and save the lives of thousands of the younger generation and non-smokers.
"There are a few commercial industries, such as restaurants and retail shops, which oppose the implementation of the Act.
"We urged the ministry not to have any discussion with commercial industries on the Act.
"We hope there will not be any u-turn on the new tobacco law," he told the New Straits Times today.
It was previously reported that the Federation of Sundry Goods Merchants Associations of Malaysia (FSGMAM) had urged the ministry to delay the implementation of the ban on displaying smoking products.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad had dismissed claims that small traders faced financial pressure to upgrade smoking product display cabinets under the Act 852.
He said claims by certain quarters that the implementation of the law placed pressure on small traders were unreasonable.
The Act, which was gazetted on Feb 2, came into effect simultaneously with its regulations and orders effective Oct 1. Some aspects were enforced immediately, and others in stages.
Subbarow said the new smoking law was to improve health by creating a culture that reduced exposure to tobacco and other smoking products and second-hand smoke.
It also supported smokers to quit and discouraged people from taking up the habit.
Subbarow said the smoking law, which banned smoking at places where people gathered to spend time with family and friends or that were part of everyday living, was necessary.
"The Act is going to help many families and CAP fully supports it," he added.
Subbarow also reiterated the need for strict restrictions on the supply, advertising, display, and promotion of smoking products.
Smoking products include tobacco products, herbal cigarettes, loose smoking blends, personal vaporizers (such as electronic or e-cigarettes, e-cigars, and vape pens), as well as e-liquids and e-cigarette components. This category also encompasses smoking-related products or packages and cartons containing these items.