F&B outlet operators in Johor say more youths are seen vaping openly in their premises. — THOMAS YONG/The Star
FOOD and beverage (F&B) outlets operators say fewer patrons are smoking within their premises, but there is a noticeable increase in youths puffing away on e-cigarettes or vapes.
Johor Indian Muslim Entrepreneurs Association secretary-general Hussein Ibrahim said the use of e-cigarettes could cause discomfort to other patrons.
“E-cigarette smokers usually exhale vapour-like aerosol.
“Vape liquids also come in various flavours, so the smell can be quite strong which causes those around the smokers to feel uncomfortable.
“Our members have noticed youths vaping openly at our premises. I have seen this at my own restaurant too,” he said.
“There was an instance where I tried to advise a student to stop vaping in the restaurant but he brushed me off and continued.”
Hussein said restaurant operators previously faced similar issues with cigarette smokers who insisted on smoking inside the eateries despite the government ban.
“Our workers have been scolded and even slapped by patrons who were asked to stop smoking inside the premises.
“On one hand we cannot be rude to our customers while on the other, we do not want to violate the law by allowing them to smoke in our shops,” he said.
Hussein said the situation with cigarette smokers had improved a lot since Health Ministry encouraged the public to take photographs of smokers violating the law by puffing away in eateries.
“However, there are still some stubborn customers who will sneak a few puffs of cigarettes while sitting at tables outside,” he said.
He added that the government should also take stern action against patrons who vape in eateries.
Similarly, Johor Baru Coffeeshops, Restaurants and Bar Operators Association chairman Wee Liang Fatt said he had noticed an increase in vape users among younger patrons.
Wee is also hoping for stronger enforcement against the use of vape within F&B premises similar to efforts made to deter cigarette smokers.
“Education is vital in driving home the message about the dangers of vaping and why it should be banned.
“Besides vaping at eateries, we also hear that many young people are using e-cigarettes in schools as the device is small and easy to hide,” he said.
Last October, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad suggested that individuals take photographs of people smoking in eateries and report them to his ministry.
This is to avoid confrontations, the minister reportedly said, adding that the ministry was actively enforcing Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) against smokers who flout regulations.
