KUALA LUMPUR: The Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) which will take effect tomorrow (Oct 1) will implement stringent regulations on the use, sale, and display of smoking products across Malaysia.
Under the Act, proprietors of non-smoking areas are required to display a clear warning sign against smoking in accordance with specifications. These signs must also contain a "clear and scannable QR code" for verification purposes.
The Act has declared various places, including entertainment centres, hospitals, clinics, public toilets, and air-conditioned shops, as non-smoking zones.
These measures extend to lifts, launderettes, public transport terminals, and specific areas within airports.
It also bans sales within 40 metres of any school or university boundary and at temporary markets or stalls, targeting the accessibility of smoking products to youths.
Additionally, the sale of tobacco products would be strictly prohibited online and via vending machines.
The display of tobacco products is also limited by the Act to specialised stores, and they must not be visible from outside.
The statement also said that educational enforcement will be conducted beforehand for a period of six to 12 months from the date of enforcement, for registration of smoking products, which will be enforced from April 1, next year.
Product-by-product packaging and labelling will take effect on Oct 1 next year and control of sales, including displays at sales counters will take effect by Apr 1 next year.
Earlier today, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that some provisions of the Act, such as "the sale of smoking products in the form of toys that attract the attention of children and teenagers" will be enforced while others will be done in stages within 6 to 12 months.
Meanwhile, the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) had said that while the act is a crucial step towards reducing the health risks associated with smoking and vaping, consistent and widespread enforcement is key for it to be effective.
Inquiries on the implementation of enforcement of the Act can be made at 03-8892 4552 or Whatsapp at 010-860 8949, every Monday to Friday, from 8am to 5pm.