Retailers scramble as anti-smoking law kicks in
PETALING JAYA: Retailers and restaurants across Malaysia are under mounting pressure to comply with the no-display ruling for cigarettes and other smoking products.
Smaller operators, in particular, are struggling with the financial and operational demands of the new regulations under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024.
Malaysian Indian-Muslim Restaurant Owners Association vice-president Abdul Mukthahir M. Ibrahim said members have been briefed in detail about the new regulations and are making the necessary adjustments.
“For outlets selling cigarettes or tobacco products, we have advised them to remove these items from open display,” he said.
However, smaller operators have reported challenges related to space and storage.
“Our members know that enforcement begins on Oct 1, and they have been preparing,” Abdul Mukthahir said.
“We support the government’s efforts to reduce smoking, especially among young people, but we hope for clear guidelines and flexibility to help small businesses adapt instead of punishing them with hefty fines.”
Abdul Mukthahir said education is crucial for both operators and customers to understand the purpose of the regulations.
Citing his own shop, he said he removed all display of tobacco products from the counter.
The Act came into effect on Oct 1, 2024, regulating the sale, distribution and use of all smoking products, including traditional tobacco and newer e-cigarettes.
Key aspects of the Act include prohibiting sales to minors, banning display of products at retail points of sale, restricting advertising and promotions and expanding smoke-free zones.
However, manufacturers and importers were given a year to update packaging and labelling of their products to comply with the new regulations.
The grace period ended last month.
Meanwhile, checks at several vape shops in the Klang Valley revealed efforts to dispose of non-compliant devices under the new regulations.
“Anything above 3,000 puffs must go, or we face hefty fines,” said a storekeeper who wished to remain anonymous.
The storekeeper said there has also been an influx of customers who came and bought their vape supplies in bulk before Oct 1.
“We even had one person buying almost 10 devices at one go.
“For the remainder of our non-compliant stock, we will have to return it to our supplier and that too will cost us money,” he said.
In Subang Jaya, a shopkeeper reported clearing old stock since early last month.
“Most vapes we sell exceed the 3,000-puff capacity. We’ve sold them cheaply, but some stock remains,” the seller said, noting that new stock must be registered with Sirim and the Health Ministry.
Adjustments are also visible in shop signs and branding.
A worker named Azeem explained that their store changed its signs to comply with the regulations, even tinting their glass earlier this year in adherence to the law.
In Cheras, a bustling vape store has closed its doors and now sells prayer items. Another nearby store altered its signage by dropping the “a” in “Vape” to spell “VPE”.
Across the Klang Valley, grocery stores have hidden cigarettes behind tinted glass, with only a sign indicating availability. Coffee shops have similarly concealed cigarettes from public view.
“We know enforcement is imminent. We want to avoid fines,” said an operator known as Wong.
Retailers who fail to comply with the law face fines ranging from RM10,000 to RM300,000, depending on the type of offence and frequency.
