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The implementation of the Tobacco Product Control for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) in local premises is currently focused on educational enforcement to raise public awareness. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad expressed concern about potential conflicts if complainants directly confront smokers at such premises. Instead, he advised individuals or complainants to take photos and report the situation to the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH). The Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 will safeguard those who report smokers violating the regulations.
"The MOH is now actively enforcing the Tobacco Product Control for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), and action will be taken against smokers who break the rules.
"Don't worry. When faced with such situations, report them to us, and let the authorities take appropriate action," he said during a press conference after the "Clean Premises, Smoke-Free" (BeBAs) Walkabout Program at Eco Grandeur Puncak Alam on Sunday.
He also noted that the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 would protect those who report violations by smokers. As of October 5, 2024, a total of 6,245 premises have been inspected, resulting in 12 fines imposed on individuals caught smoking in prohibited areas. Dr Dzulkefly stated that the ministry has issued warnings to premises as they are still in the educational phase, with stricter enforcement planned to begin on April 1, 2025.
Throughout 2023, the ministry received 9,440 complaints about smoking violations in food premises. From January to August 2024, 8,762 complaints were received, all of which have been referred to the nearest health office for further action. The public can report smoking violations in food premises via the Smoking Complaint WhatsApp line at +6010-860 8949.
How To Make Report?
Report a complaint directly to the Smoking Complaint line as below:
☎️ 03-88924530 (Office Hours Only)
📱 010-8608949 (Whatsapp/Telegram/SMS only)
How to make a smoking complaint?
✅ State the type of complaint
✅ Take a picture of the fault (the restaurant does not have a No Smoking sign / smokers are smoking on the premises)
✅ Include the name and address of the restaurant
✅ State the date and time of the fault
Don't hesitate to report because you are fully protected under the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 (Act 711)
The Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 (Act 711) in Malaysia provides legal protection to individuals who disclose information about improper conduct within organizations. The act encourages reporting by safeguarding whistleblowers from retaliation, such as dismissal or disciplinary action, and ensures their confidentiality. It applies to both public and private sectors, promoting transparency and accountability by offering protection to those who report corruption, misconduct, or violations of the law.
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