PETALING JAYA: The delay in the tabling of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Bill 2023 for its second reading did not sit well with various groups and civil society leaders, who have demanded an explanation from the Health Ministry.
Alliance for Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said the excuse of postponing the event to make way for other government affairs in Parliament was not convincing at all.
“The reason given was very vague and it is not convincing.
“I hope they will sort out any remaining issues and ensure that this Bill is tabled in the current Parliament sitting that ends on Nov 30,” he said.
The Consumers Association of Penang education and anti-smoking activist NV Subbarow said children were increasingly addicted to vaping and ecigarettes. A majority of those who vape are children and students. We also have five million smokers, who also consist of students and youths.
“The anti-smoking Bill is a life-saving Bill for our children and youths,” said Subarrow, who is disappointed with the delay.
“We need a healthy future generation. The more we delay, we are going to see more children and youths being addicted (to nicotine) down the road,” he added.
Medical Mythbusters Malaysia also demanded an explanation on the postponement of the Bill.
“We recently spoke about the role of the public in pressuring for transparency and accountability. Otherwise it will worsen the trust deficit towards the present government.
“As long as there are no laws, our youths can be recruited as nicotine addicts,” said the medical group.
