KUCHING: The proposed Tobacco and Smoking Control law contains clauses to prohibit the sale of cigarettes, tobacco and vape products to anyone born after 2005.
The Bill is expected to be debated in Parliament next week.
The New Sarawak Tribune went out to get a feel of whether the public agrees with the proposed move.
TOMMY PILA PHILIP GREENE, 50, RETIREE
“In my opinion, I do agree with the proposed Bill. The government should also ban smoking as it is not good for health. But again, it is not easy to do.
Even though some people don’t have money to get by, they waste it on cigarettes because of their addiction. In conclusion, cigarettes harm people’s health.”
RAYDICA NICHEAL, 28, PRIVATE EMPLOYEE
“I really agree because it is very inappropriate for the younger generation to smoke as it is bad for their health. We can see the culture of vaping among those even below the age of 17.
Thus, the sale of vaping and tobacco and other smoking products on premises should be tightened. Fines should be imposed on premises that sell vaping and tobacco to those under 17 years old.”
CHRISTINA JOSLIN CHRISTOPHER, 24, TEACHER
“I agree because it can prevent people from getting sick from smoking. Apart from that, the initial approach to the dangers of smoking among teenagers should be improved in schools.”
DONNY TANG, 23, PRIVATE EMPLOYEE
“For those who are selling tobacco or other smoking products, it will affect their business. In this case, parents or guardians need to guide their children about the danger of smoking and what it can do to their health.”
ROHIT RAO, 21, F&B SUPERVISOR
“Yes, I agree on smoking controls. We see that even at the age of 12 children have already started vaping without their parents’ knowledge. A lot of youngsters have passed away due to smoking addiction. My suggestion would be to tighten the law on cigarettes for the younger generation.”
