KUALA LUMPUR: Many Malaysian artistes are in support of the Tobacco and Smoking Control Bill, also known as the tobacco generational endgame (GEG) law, which was recently tabled at the Dewan Rakyat.
The bill is aimed at putting a stop to smoking and to protect the health of Malaysians, especially the younger generation.
A growing number of celebrities are voicing their approval of this effort and some have even shared their own experiences on the ill effects of smoking.
Popular TV host Datuk Aznil Nawawi recently shared tragic stories involving his family members linked to the bad habit by uploading an old clip from 2019 on the dangers of smoking on his Instagram account.
"I uploaded that old video segment from a live IG session to show support for the government's efforts. That old clip was done after the passing of my second brother on Aug 17, 2019.
"At the time, I was saddened and disappointed by the act of smoking which had destroyed a life and led to death. I have already lost a father and brother to smoking, so don't let our loved ones succumb to the same fate," he said in a news report today.
Aznil added that he had also started smoking after his SPM examinations but was able to quit much later.
"When I began working in 1984, I became a heavy smoker since I was making my own money. However, after returning from umrah in 2005, I made the decision to stop and by the grace of God, I was able to.
"Now, I can't stand the smell of cigarette smoke and I even get uncomfortable when I see other people smoking," he said.
Meanwhile, producer and actor Datuk Rosyam Nor has admitted that he developed a habit for smoking at the age of 18 and has spent a lot of money on the addiction.
"I support the bill 300 per cent. I've been smoking since I was 18 and I've used up lots of money. Now I'm 55 and breathless. Imagine this, even when I walk up some stairs I feel breathless and all sorts of other things as well," he said.
He added: "I support this effort so that all Malaysians will be able to enjoy a healthier life. What is being done is for the greater good."
Young singer and actor Khai Bahar confessed that he had quit the bad habit in 2019 after realising the of negative consequences of smoking.
"Campaigns against smoking are desperately needed to continuously provide awareness on the dangers of the nicotine content in cigarettes.
"Cigarette smoke can adversely affect the people around who don't smoke. We don't want lives to be needlessly affected just like that, especially those who don't even smoke.
"So, we have to think of other people and not just our own selves," he said.
Khai explained that it was not easy for him to quit but it was worthwhile as his health improved.
"I managed to do it and if there a will then there's a way. Keep at it until you achive success in order for everyone to enjoy a healthy environment. This is especially important for families and little children," he said.
Khai added: "One of the benefits to quitting was my vocals. People had noticed that my singing had become much better sounding."
"I admit that when I don't smoke, I'm more comfortable when performing. I can breathe better and have more control without feeling stuck," he said.
The Control of Tobacco Product and Smoking Bill 2022 was tabled for a second reading at the Dewan Rakyat on Monday.
Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said it covered prohibition of smoking on the target group of the GEG, classified as individuals born in 2007 and onwards, and was aimed at protecting their health and lives.
If approved, the law would come into force in 2025, ensuring ample time for a smooth transition in regulating tobacco products, smoking substances, substitute tobacco products or smoking devices.
The World Health Organization (WHO) found that cigarette smoking causes over 8 million deaths worldwide every year, which includes 1.2 million passive smokers.