KUALA LUMPUR – The Health Ministry is set to reintroduce the Control of Tobacco Product and Smoking Bill 2022, which includes community service sentences and a fine of RM500.
The bill aims to educate the vape and tobacco industry and safeguard the generational endgame for youth born after 2007.
Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa emphasised the focus on health education and awareness, stating that the new law is not intended as punishment but as a means of education.
The proposed community service sentences do not involve imprisonment, and the Attorney-General’s Chambers and Prison Department have shown support for the idea.
The original fine of RM5,000 has been reduced to RM500 based on stakeholder engagements, including consultations with non-governmental organisations, ministries, and a parliamentary select committee.
The community service and fine reduction are part of the 23 proposed amendments to the bill, which covers the registration, advertising, packaging, and sale of tobacco products.
The approach taken is aimed at educating the public and will involve the submission of periodic reports, with the first one expected in 2025.
The bill is planned to be fully implemented by 2030, with periodic reports thereafter to assess its effectiveness.
Dr Zaliha highlighted the need to address loopholes in advertising and sales practices, particularly concerning children and teenagers.
The enforcement of regulations for cigarettes, cigars, and vaping devices will be approached separately from conventional smoking.
Enforcement measures will be considered carefully, and efforts will be made to avoid treating conventional smokers and vape users the same.
The bill is seen as an opportunity to save two million lives and reduce healthcare costs associated with conventional tobacco use and e-cigarette addiction.
Deputy Health Minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni noted the active involvement of the parliamentary select committee in engaging with industry players.
While some objections were raised by certain quarters of the industry, 75% of them supported the details of the new law.
Dr Zaliha dismissed any uncertainty surrounding the tabling of the bill, stating that the cabinet’s approval and support for it marked a success.
The bill previously underwent first and second readings on July 27 and August 1 last year under previous health minister Khairy Jamaluddin. – The Vibes, June 6, 2023
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