As the nation prepares itself to ban smoking at all restaurants and eateries come 1st of January, Deputy Health Minister Dr Lee Boon Chye urges the public to play an active role.
According to Dr Lee, the public can act as the ministry’s eyes and ears once the smoking ban is enacted by lodging complaints via it hotline at 03-8892 4530.
That means you can report to the ministry if you see someone smoking in a restaurant or cafe in 2019.
Source: Star2
“During this enforcement period, it’s important that this is not done just by the ministry but also with the cooperation of the public.”
“The government is widening the scope of non-smoking zones not just to bring down the numbers of smokers but to also protect the rights of those who do not smoke so that they will not be exposed to second-hand smoke, and protect their health.”
Dr Lee added the first six months will be geared toward advising stubborn offenders.
Source: NST
With a 5,000 strong enforcement team set to take to the streets, Dr Lee explained that stern enforcement will begin after six months with regular patrols to the various eateries in Malaysia.
“We will arrange the deployment of our enforcement officers nationwide. In the first six months, we need to increase enforcement efforts.”
RM10,000 atau tidak lebih 2 tahun penjara.
(Let's see how Twitter responds, posted in FB too) pic.twitter.com/5D38m7jQFe— Dr Beni Rusani (@DrBeniRusani) December 28, 2018
“However, enforcement action in these six months will focus on educating the public and restaurant owners so that they are aware of the ruling and hopefully, they will respect the ban.”
“After six months, there will be patrols to check on the smoking ban and the public can call the ministry hotline if they see people breaking the law.”
The move made by the Health Ministry will certainly be a welcoming sight for non-smokers and families looking to enjoy a smoke-free environment.
So now the question is would you report on someone who broke the rules?
Also read: Local Govt Minister: Restaurant Smoking Ban Does Not Apply to Sarawak
