In conjunction with the the Control of Tobacco Product (Amendment) Regulations 2017 (PPKHT), the Perak Health Department has tightened up it’s no smoking ruling at 50 public parks around Perak.
The amendment, effective on June 1, states that no smoking is allowed in public parks, public transport stops, air-conditioned restaurants and cafes, playgrounds, game courts, hospital compounds, elevators, public toilets, etc. According to State Exco for Health, Public Transport, Non-Islamic Affairs, National Integration and New Villages, Dato’ Dr Mah Hang Soon, the public must be aware of the amendments to avoid being fined.
“Anyone found smoking around the area after June 1 will be compounded for RM5000 and if they refuse to pay it within the fine date, they can be brought to court and if found guilty will be fined up to RM10,000 or sentenced to jail for two years or both,” said Mah while distributing fliers about the issue to the public at Polo Ground on February 18.
He then added that they have assigned at least 34 enforcement teams around Perak to guard the no smoking areas. Mah also said that last year the health department had issued more than 1300 compounds totalling RM319,300.
“We urge the public to be our eyes and ears and inform the Health Department if they see anyone smoking openly at parks,” he added.
Luqman Hakim
