PETALING JAYA: Action has been taken against a public servant caught smoking at an eatery, says the Health Ministry.
The ministry confirmed that the individual involved was serving with the Gombak District Health Office.
Previously, viral photos on social media captured an individual in a Health Ministry uniform openly smoking at a restaurant in Rawang. An alleged government vehicle can also be seen parked nearby.
“A compound notice has been issued to the individual under Section 16(2) (No. 4: smoking in food premises) of Act 852.
“In addition, internal disciplinary action will be taken in accordance with the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations to ensure the integrity of the public service is maintained,” it said in a statement on Monday (March 23).
It also emphasised that the smoking ban under the Control of Tobacco Products for Public Health 2024 (Act 852) was comprehensive and applied to all individuals, including civil servants.
“The ministry takes this matter seriously as food premises are among the 28 gazetted smoke-free areas aimed at safeguarding the well-being of the public.
“As the leading public health agency, we will not compromise with any staff who fail to comply with the law and are committed to enforcing the regulations strictly, fairly, and consistently to protect public health,” it added.
The ministry extended its appreciation to the public for its vigilance and encouraged information or complaints to be channelled through official channels to strengthen enforcement and protect public health.
Meanwhile, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad has also thanked the individual who reported the incident.
Dzulkefly said no one is above the law, including ministry staff, who should be role models to the community.
"I have been instructed to take stern action immediately. Those involved have been issued compounds and will face disciplinary action," he said in a post on X.
