Health DG: Priority Should Be On Public Health, Not The ‘Fundamental Right’ To Smoke

Health director-general Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah has stressed that we must prioritise public health issues over the ‘fundamental right’ to smoke, especially for young people in the country. Hence, Malaysians are urged to support the actions of the Ministry of Health (MOH) with the introduction of the Tobacco Products and Smoking Control Act and the tobacco generational endgame (GEG).

As reported by national news agency Bernama, Dr Noor Hisham advises the public to support MOH’s proposal to protect the younger generation of Malaysia from smoking tobacco and vaping. He asserted,

“Tobacco Products and Smoking Control Act and tobacco generational endgame (GEG) aims to create a generation that is free from any smoking including cigarettes and vaping for those born in 2007 and the years after,”

The aforementioned bill was presented for first reading at the Dewan Rakyat on 27 July 2022, which among other things provided for the following:

• Prohibition of individuals born in 2007 and onwards from smoking, buying or possessing tobacco products or smoking devices
• Any individuals within the category above who smoke tobacco products or tobacco substitute products, use smoking devices or possess tobacco products, smoking materials, tobacco substitute products or smoking devices can be fined not more than RM5,000 if convicted

The Health DG posted the statement in reference to certain parties and lobbyists that are trying to question the introduction of the historic bill. He then cited historical facts about previous law enforcement such as the wearing of helmets and seat belts which is in regards to people’s safety and lives.

Dr Noor Hisham then sarcastically said that he is thankful that in 1975, 1979 and 2009, Members of Parliament (MPs) used their power as representatives of the people well and contributed to many lives without no parties or lobbyists questioning ‘human rights’ to continue not wearing helmets or seat belts.

What do you guys think about the statement by the Health DG? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

Also read: M’sians Urged To Stop Throwing Cigarette Butts From Vehicles As It Causes Fires!