KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 5,000 personnel have been deployed by the Health Ministry nationwide to implement the no-smoking ban, which came into force at midnight yesterday.
Deputy Health Minister Dr Lee Boon Chye said the ministry’s officers will be monitoring all no-smoking areas, including eateries, which come under Regulation 11 (1) (d) of the Tobacco Control Regulation (PPKHT) Regulations 2004 (amended) 2018.
He said many restaurants had since put up the mandatory no-smoking signs at their establishments.
He added that the number of smokers in eateries had seen a drastic reduction since the government gazetted those areas as no-smoking zones from Jan 1 last year.
“We will ramp up nighttime enforcement operations, including outside the city.
“This is because many people tend to flout the ruling during the late hours.
“The public can also lodge complaints by channelling information through the right channels if they see any individuals or premises flouting the law.
“We have given them adequate time. By right, all individuals and owners of premises such as eateries should understand this already,” he said.
Those caught smoking in no-smoking zones, including all eateries, will be issued a RM250 compound.
This can be reduced to RM50 if it is the first offence, and settled at the district health office within a month of the compound being issued.
No reductions will be given for the second offence, and offenders will have to pay the full amount.
Third time offenders will have to pay a compound of RM350.
Under the new ruling, eatery owners must ensure that their premises are completely smoke-free.
They are also forbidden from providing amenities that enable smokers, including ashtrays or shisha services.
Proprietors must also ensure that the “no smoking” sign is displayed prominently and clearly in an area visible to all.
Failure to comply with the ruling can see business owners issued a compound of RM250 for the first and second offences, and RM350 for the third offence.
Those who wish to channel complaints or tip-offs to the Health Ministry can do so via WhatsApp at 010 8608949 or by dialling 03 88924530.
The complaint or tip-off should include details such as the name of the outlet, its address and the type of offence as well as pictures of smokers puffing away in the premises.