Anti-smoking Bill may be heading to Parliamentary Special Select Committee

PETALING JAYA: The anti-smoking Bill which was slated to be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat in this meeting may be referred to the Parliamentary Special Select Committee (PSSC).

Sources said the PSSC for Health was informed that the Control of Smoking Product for Public Health Bill may be heading their way soon.

“We were told it should be sent anytime soon,” said a source.

ALSO READ : More engagement with private healthcare needed on nurse shortage, says Dr Zaliha

However, it is unclear if the move will delay the tabling of the Bill.

Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa reportedly said on May 29 that the ministry will table the bill first before and will assess the situation afterwards.

She said this in response to concerns that the Bill will be referred to the PSSC.

The Control of Smoking Product for Public Health Bill is the same Bill that was tabled in 2022 and included amendments based on the recommendation of PSSC.

ALSO READ : Health White Paper to be tabled in Parliament next week, says Dr Zaliha

The anti-smoking generational endgame sought to ban the use, possession and sale of cigarettes and vape products to those born after 2007.

In an interview with The Star last month, Dr Zaliha said the legislation loopholes related to the uncontrolled sale of e-cigarettes or vaping products will be addressed in the Bill related to regulation of smoking.