KUCHING: The launching ceremony of the smoking ban was graced by Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk James Chan alongside the state health department at iCom Square here, yesterday.
During the ceremony, no-smoking signs were put up at eateries in iCom Square.
Later during a press conference, state health department director Dr Jamilah Hashim said the smoking ban is the country’s commitment as a member state to the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control as it adheres to the guidelines under Article 8 of the World Health Organisation (WHO).
“A six-month educational implementation will be in effect until Aug 31, after which the actual enforcement would follow with the imposition of heavy penalties on both smokers and food premises operators or owners,” she said.
She explained that the penalties for those caught smoking in prohibited places will be fined an amount not exceeding RM10,000 or jailed for two years; food premises found not displaying the no-smoking sign will be fined an amount not exceeding RM3,000 or imprisoned for six months; and food premises displaying ashtrays in their eateries will be fined an amount not exceeding RM5,000 or jailed a year.
“At the moment, vaping is not included in the ban unless the vapour contains nicotine but we hope those who vape will follow the same regulations as it is for the benefit of the public,” she said.
Dr Jamilah added that her department would not be providing the no-smoking signs for free but food premise owners can always approach the department for a sample.
Also present at the ceremony were MBKS deputy mayor Hilmy Othman and Ministry of Local Government and Housing representative head of shared services Susan Loh.
