Malaysians hailing decision of High Court

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians are hailing the decision by the High Court here to dismiss a constitutional challenge against the Health Ministry’s total ban on smoking in all food outlets on Jan 1.

“Alhamdulillah! Smoking ban at eateries stands!” tweeted Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad yesterday morning when informed of the decision.

Based on comments from The Star’s Facebook page, many Malaysians echoed the Health Ministry’s sentiments on the High Court decision.

“Sound decision, I’m proud that my petition of admission was heard before (High Court judge) YA Mariana, ” said Facebook user Wilbur Siew.

Facebook user Thomas Tan said: “Well done. This minister is good. He promised to do something and he delivered.”

While many were joyous, some Malaysians reminded that the ruling must be enforced.

“Bravo! But more enforcement is needed, ” said Facebook user Tej Fernandez.

“Be strict with the ban. Make sure it is fully enforced, ” said Silvia Tan.

Some took the time to remind fellow smokers to abide by the law.

“Am a smoker but I try to follow the rules. It’s not that hard, ” said user Encik Hirman.

Yesterday, in dismissing the application for a judicial review by seven Malaysians on the smoking ban in food outlets, High Court judge Datuk Seri Mariana Yahya ruled that the application by the group did not breach Articles 5 and 8 of the Federal Constitution, which concern the rights of person and equality before the law.

Mariana said the ban, which required smokers to keep a minimum of 3m from a food outlet’s tables and chairs, did not deny them their freedom of choice.

She said that smokers still smoked and could enjoy the outlet’s food and drinks without discrimination.