The Malaysian Health Ministry (MOH) has intensified its nationwide efforts to enforce the Smoking Products Control Act for Public Health 2023 (Act 852) as it seeks to reduce smoking in prohibited areas and educate the public on new regulations. The ministry has inspected 45,666 locations nationwide since October 1 to ensure compliance and promote awareness about the act. This recent initiative emphasizes not only compliance but also preparing business owners and the public for the changes coming in the tobacco industry.
Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni, Deputy Minister of Health, shared that inspections were carried out across the country through 2,697 targeted operations. These inspections have led to a total of 57,856 educational actions aimed at raising awareness about Act 852 and highlighting the responsibilities of both individuals and businesses in curbing smoking in public areas.
As a result of these enforcement efforts, notices were issued for various violations: “In total, 827 notices were served to individuals caught smoking in restricted zones, 16 to minors found smoking, and six notices were issued to business owners failing to display no-smoking signs,” Lukanisman said, underscoring the ministry’s commitment to educating the public. These details were shared following his participation in the "Clean, Smoke-Free Premises Walkabout," an event conducted simultaneously with the Integrated Enforcement Operation for Act 852. The event took place at Medan Renong and along Penang’s iconic Jalan Penang, signaling the MOH’s hands-on approach in supporting a smoke-free environment.
The operation also focused on monitoring food establishments to encourage safer and cleaner environments. In a thorough sweep of 46 food premises around the Medan Renong Food Complex and nearby Lebuh Light, 34 were granted the Clean and Safe (BeSS) certification—a recognition that the premises meet specific hygiene and safety standards. This certification aligns with the MOH's aim to foster clean environments, especially where food is served, ensuring that customers enjoy not only a meal but also a smoke-free experience.
Datuk Lukanisman highlighted that the ministry’s focus is currently on educational enforcement to ensure that the public, business owners, and other stakeholders fully understand the requirements. "We're focusing on educating first," he explained. "At this stage, we're not penalizing business owners, and no fines are being issued. Instead, we’re committed to holding informative engagement sessions to thoroughly explain the requirements and help business owners prepare for the upcoming tobacco display restrictions."
In addition to ensuring compliance with no-smoking zones, the MOH’s effort involves preparing businesses for more stringent tobacco display laws. Starting in April next year, businesses will face a comprehensive ban on visible tobacco products in stores. This restriction aims to reduce the exposure of tobacco products to the public, especially youth, as studies have shown that increased visibility of tobacco products can influence minors to start smoking. Through these engagement sessions, business owners will have the opportunity to clarify any questions regarding compliance with the law before the ban fully takes effect, fostering a smoother transition.
The enforcement of Act 852 officially commenced on October 1 and introduces a wide range of measures targeting different aspects of tobacco product availability and visibility. Not only does the act cover smoking in public spaces, but it also extends to the sale, advertising, promotion, and sponsorship of tobacco products. The act prohibits tobacco sales in key locations such as educational institutions, markets, and vending machines. Additionally, the new law has strict restrictions on online sales, as digital platforms have increasingly become an avenue for minors to access restricted products. The act also addresses an emerging trend in marketing by banning tobacco sales in the form of games, which have become popular methods for promoting products subtly, particularly among younger demographics.
Lukanisman further explained that these prohibitions are crucial for addressing modern-day tobacco marketing strategies that often target youths and are difficult to regulate. He reiterated the ministry’s firm stance on ensuring a safer and healthier environment for Malaysians.
Public health organizations and advocates have long supported such measures, seeing Act 852 as a critical step in Malaysia’s journey toward becoming a healthier, smoke-free nation. The ministry has underscored the importance of a combined effort from businesses, the public, and law enforcement in achieving this vision.
Reference: Health Ministry inspects over 45,000 premises nationwide for new smoking law compliance | Malay Mail
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