KUANTAN: The opposition-led Pahang government has given its commitment to uphold and support the new federal ruling on no-smoking despite protest by eateries in the state.
State Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Abdul Rahim Muda gave an assurance that the local councils would support the enforcement activities carried out by the Health Ministry under the law.
He urged the public and businesses to adhere to the new ruling which concerned health and cleanliness.
“We will abide by all federal rules and regulations on smoking and even vaping.
“There have been complaints by eateries, especially by mamak restaurants. But they will need to follow the law," he told the New Straits Times.
Today, Deputy Health Minister Dr Lee Boon Chye said a total of 5,000 personnel had been deployed by the ministry nationwide to implement the smoking ban, which came into force at midnight yesterday.
He 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 acknowledged that there had been a drastic drop in smokers in eateries since the government gazetted those areas as no-smoking zones from Jan 1 last year.
Those caught smoking in no-smoking zones, including eateries, will be issued RM250 compound. First offenders can get it reduced to RM50 and settle it 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. Owners who fail to do so will be issued a compound of RM250 for the first and second offences, and RM350 for the third offence.
Those who want to lodge a complaint or tip-off the Health Ministry can do so via WhatsApp at 010 8608949 or by dialling 0388924530. It must 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.