THE Malaysian Indian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association (Presma) has proposed that all mamak restaurants stop selling cigarettes.
Over 40% of the 12,000 eateries under Presma no longer sell cigarettes, according to its president, Datuk Jawahar Ali Taib Khan.
"Out of more than 12,000 outlets, nearly 40 per cent have discontinued the sale of cigarettes.
"A restaurant in Puncak Alam recently received a letter of appreciation from the Health Minister for not selling cigarettes," he said.
This move, he told Astro Awani, signals a positive direction for the food industry.
He compared the initiative to the past when some shops sold alcohol, but now, such establishments are scarce.
However, he voiced concern over legal provisions that would penalise eatery operators for failing to stop customers from smoking on their premises.
Jawahar said it was difficult for operators to order patrons not to smoke at their restaurants as they have limited legal authority.
"I hope regular inspections will be conducted at premises to foster a non-smoking culture in our food establishments," he added. - October 7, 2024
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