THE days of lawmakers smoking within the Parliament building are over.
The building is one of 28 designated no-smoking zones following the enforcement of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) on Oct 1 and lawmakers have been reminded that they will face stiff penalties if they fail to comply.
Urging MPs to obey the order, Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul said three smoking locations have been designated – in front of the cafeteria at the MPs and administration block, the area next to the main block and in front of the multipurpose hall. All three areas are some distance away from the main building.
Previously, MPs could be seen smoking at the entrance of the building.
“We hope all MPs and those in Parliament can give their cooperation,” Johari said in his address prior to the start of Parliament here yesterday.
Enforcement of Act 852 began on Oct 1 and it covers regulations on registration, sale, packaging, labelling and prohibition of smoking in public places. Enforcement will be done in stages, with grace periods offered for businesses to adapt to the new laws.
Johari also reminded the House of the no-sugar day policy in Parliament every Wednesday.
“This will not only involve Parliament staff but also MPs. It is in line with healthy lifestyle campaigns that we must practice together,” he said.
He also reminded lawmakers of the Nov 11 deadline to carry out their mandatory health checks.
“Congratulations to those who have already undergone checks. Those who have yet to do so, I appeal for you to do it,” he said.
The Parliament meeting, which began yesterday, will continue until Dec 12.
