MIRI: The implementation of the smoking ban policy should be done in stages and not in a hasty way, said Miri Coffee Shop Association chairman Lau Tin Sing.
When met yesterday on the smoking ban policy, Lau said that the policy should not be implemented straight away.
“The policy should be implemented in stages so that people can gradually accept it,” he said.
In Miri, the association has 100 members and they have organised several meetings since the announcement of the “No Smoking” policy at eateries imposed by the federal.
“Even though in Sarawak our government has yet to impose the policy, we hope our state government can make some considerations that benefit both sides (coffee shop owners and customers).
“Smoking habits have been embedded within our community and it needs continuous efforts by the government to educate and raise awareness of the dangers of smoking,” he said.
Lau also suggested that authorities should consider allocating a smoking area for smokers.
“Of course smokers would say they have the right to smoke, but in order to create a win-win situation, it is important to find a solution to tackle this problem as we do not want to create uneasiness towards our customers,” he said.
Meanwhile, when met earlier, Miri City mayor Adam Yii said the council will follow the decision of the state government if the “No Smoking” policy is to be imposed in Sarawak.
“Even though it has been imposed effective Jan 1 this year, it’s a federal law and is not applicable for us here to follow. The council will only follow the state,” Yii said.
