PUTRAJAYA: The Health Ministry issued 5,642 notices with a total fine of RM1,370,500 for smoking-related offences between Oct 1 and Dec 17.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said that enforcement was conducted under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), which took effect on Oct 1.
"The offences included 5,271 notices for smoking in prohibited areas under Section 16(2), 193 notices for minors smoking or using smoking products under Section 17(1), and 26 notices for premise owners under Section 18(1)," he told reporters today.
Dzulkefly also introduced the "Jom Lapor" portal, which allows the public to report violations of smoking-related laws.
"The portal, launched yesterday, has already received 135 complaints. This platform will help strengthen enforcement and combat violations more effectively," he said.
The portal was developed in collaboration with NGOs and professional bodies to enhance enforcement efforts.
"The initiative reflects a 'whole-of-society' approach and highlights the government's commitment to tackling smoking-related issues comprehensively," he said.
He said the portal allowed for anonymous complaints with photographic evidence and location details, covering violations such as advertising smoking products, illegal sales, and underage smoking.
"The ministry encourages all Malaysians to use the Jom Lapor portal, as well as other platforms like WhatsApp (010-860 8949) and the Public Feedback Management System (SISPAA)," he said, adding that over 13,000 complaints had been received through these channels.
"We are determined to make Malaysia a smoke-free nation by 2040, but this will require full support from the community to protect the health of future generations," he added.
Earlier, in his speech Dzulkefly reiterated that under the Act, no one was above the law.
Recently, a photograph of Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan holding a cigarette while seated with a group of people at an eatery has gone viral, with many calling on authorities to act on his wrongdoing.
Yesterday (Dec 19), Dzulkefly said Mohamad would be issued a compound for smoking in a no-smoking zone at a restaurant in his hometown.