Nine months after being gazetted, the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024, also known as Act 852, came into effect on Oct 1, 2024.
This new law aims to protect non-smokers from the dangers of second-hand smoke and regulate the usage of tobacco and vape products in public spaces.
Where smoking and vaping are prohibited in Malaysia
Here’s a quick breakdown of the locations where smoking and vaping are now strictly prohibited:
- Entertainment centres or theatres (except casinos)
- Hospitals or clinics
- Lifts and public toilets
- Restaurants, mamaks, and eateries
- Air-conditioned shops
- Launderettes
- Public transport terminals
- Government buildings
- Parliament premises
- Public event spaces (except residential buildings)
- Educational institutions and kindergartens
- Public service counters
- Shopping malls
- Petrol stations
- Stadiums, gyms, and fitness centres
- Religious buildings
- Libraries and internet cafés
- National service training centres
- Workplaces
- Rest and recreation areas (except open public car parks)
- Public parks (except open public car parks)
- Observation towers, campsites, and canopy bridges
- Inside school buses and public vehicles
- Airports (with exceptions)
Reporting Smokers in Restricted Areas
Suppose you spot someone smoking in any of these restricted areas and they continue even after being politely reminded or alerted by staff.
In that case, you can report them to the Ministry of Health (KKM).
How to report individuals smoking or vaping in restricted locations to KKM?
Here’s how you can lodge a report to KKM:
Step 1: Take a photo:
Capture a clear photo of the individual violating the smoking ban.
Step 2: Record the incident details:
Include the following information in your report:
- Date of the incident
- Location (name of the place or address)
- A brief description of the incident
- Details of the incident
Step 3: Submit via WhatsApp
Send the details and photo to the official KKM helpline at 010-8608949.
Once your report is submitted, the relevant KKM officer will follow up and take necessary action based on the provided information.
Protecting Public Health
This new law not only encourages smokers to comply but also empowers the public to contribute to a smoke-free environment.
So, the next time you encounter someone flouting the rules at a mamak or other public space, follow the steps above to help enforce the law and protect others from second-hand smoke.
