KUALA LUMPUR: The new smoking control law must be enforced firmly and consistently to prevent retailers from flouting rules once inspection teams leave, say interest groups.
Otherwise, the law will only remain symbolic, they said.
“A zero-tolerance approach and continuous monitoring is needed, especially around schools and areas with youths,” said Federation of Malaysia Consumers Associations (Fomca) chief executive officer T. Saravanan.
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“Periodic enforcement operations send the wrong signal because traders know that once the inspection teams leave, they can continue selling as usual.”
On whether the radius on the prohibition of smoking products should be increased, he said it is only something good in principle. Currently, no sale of tobacco or vape products are allowed within a 40m radius of educational institutions.
“The real problem is not the distance but a lack of fear towards punishment,” said Saravanan.
He urged for greater coordination among the Health Ministry, local councils and officers to conduct regular spot checks.
“Retailers caught selling to minors or in prohibited zones should not only face fines but also have their operating licence revoked immediately.
“Enforcement must be visible and penalties must be publicised. Compliance can only improve if enforcement is firm, visible and consistent,” he said.
He also mooted the reinstatement of the Generational End Game law, which was put off in 2023.
Anti-smoking activist NV Subbarow felt the ban on the sale of tobacco products should be extended to at least a kilometre from education compounds.
“There are many stores selling such products that are just a walking distance from schools.
“Many tuition centres also operate in shoplots, where tobacco products are easily found,” said the Consumers Association of Penang senior education officer.
He said the issue has also constantly been raised by teachers at awareness programmes in schools.
“Without strong enforcement, it will be difficult to really achieve a smoke-free Malaysia,” he said.
