GEORGE TOWN (Bernama): Clarification on the smoking ban in Penang's open-air restaurants starting this December — that's what a few Pakatan Rakyat representatives asked for today (Nov 15) at the Penang State Legislative Assembly.
Will restaurant operators still be allowed to sell cigarettes on the premises, asked Jawi state assemblyman, H'ng Mooi Lye.
"For me, this situation is very 'sarcastic' if we allow operators or restaurant owners to sell cigarettes but smoking is prohibited," he said.
Responding to this, State Agriculture, Agro-based Industry, Rural Development and Health Committee chairman, Dr Afif Bahardin, said he had no knowledge of a prohibition (on selling cigarettes) being issued.
"I have no answer, although (if you think about it), there are many shops selling condoms, but do we ‘do it' there?” he said to laughter from the attendees.
On special smoking rooms, Dr Afif said that based on the announcement by the Ministry of Health, this will not be permitted.
"Only a special area outside the restaurant will be allowed for smoking. The goal is to make all areas, except for a few specific locations, non-smoking," he said.
Machang Bubuk assemblyman, Lee Khai Loon, asked if there will be enough personnel to enforce the ban, as even to manage dengue, there is a problem.
“How do we ensure good enforcement for the smoking ban?" he asked.
Afif replied that the weaknesses have already been identified.
"But there are other issues arising from this matter, like, will the fine be channelled to the local authority or Federal Government. Talks are being held," he said. - Bernama
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