KUALA LUMPUR: A sundry group today called for the delay in enforcement of the retail display ban of tobacco and vape products.
This, the Federation of Sundry Goods Merchants Associations of Malaysia said, was until guidelines and financial support could be introduced.
Federation president Hong Chee Meng said: "The government's decision to ban the display of tobacco and products is too rushed and drastic.
"Tens of thousands of small retailers are expected to comply with this requirement by April 1, 2025.
"There is no consideration given to small retailers.
"Each store will have to invest significant resources to make physical modifications to hide these products from customers.
"However, the government has not offered financial assistance or a phased rollout. This is blindsiding small businesses."
He said investments would include upfront costs to reconfigure shelves in stores.
He said each retailer could incur up to RM6,000 to comply with the ban, and could amount to nearly RM300 million in implementation costs nationwide.
Hong said the display ban could encourage the rise of illegal cigarettes and vape products, as legitimate products would be hidden from view.
He said many had raised concerns about the need for additional staff to manage concealed products and the potential disruption to customer service.
"This policy has been rushed and not well planned in collaboration with industry stakeholders.
"Retailers deserve to know how to comply, and we deserve time and support to implement these changes.
"Right now, the government is asking us to comply in such a short time and bear the cost without any help."
He said the government could not impose a policy without considering its economic impact, especially on smaller retailers.
"We urge the Health Ministry to halt this policy's implementation until a clear, supportive framework is in place."
The Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024, which took effect on Oct 1, mandates stringent regulations on the use, sale and display of smoking products.
The law bans sales within 40m 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 will be prohibited online and via vending machines.
The display of tobacco products will also be limited to specialised stores, and must not be visible from outside.