By Zaki Salleh
Photo: Wat Kamal Abas
BAGAN SERAI: A total of 8,795 summonses related to cigarette and vape offenses were issued in this state last year, with an estimated collection of nearly RM2.2 million.
This year alone, up until June, a total of 5,483 summonses have been issued, with an estimated collection of RM1.37 million.
Perak State Health Executive Councilor, A. Sinavesan, stated that based on this record, his office takes the matter seriously and is highly committed to curbing this issue.
He added that enforcement will be tightened once the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) is implemented.
“Although this act has been approved by the Senate to replace the Tobacco Control Regulations 2004, a review is currently being conducted.
“Once enforced, it will help curb the rise in the use of conventional cigarettes and electronic cigarettes in the country, particularly in Perak.
“It involves prohibiting the sale, purchase, and use of all types of smoking products to individuals under the age of 18,” he said.
He made these remarks after officiating the Perak State-level World No Tobacco Day celebration and the Kerian District Malaysia Healthy Agenda Tour 2024 in Bukit Merah.
The gazetted Act 852 represents comprehensive control over all types of smoking products, including electronic cigarettes or vapes.
Meanwhile, Sivanesan mentioned that the Ministry of Health will continue to conduct anti-smoking advocacy programs in collaboration with various agencies, non-governmental organizations, and other groups.
He added that efforts by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to curb any advertising related to tobacco products through social media would also continue.
