MyWatch supports calls for RCI on Tobacco Bill


PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Women’s Action for Tobacco Control and Health (MyWatch) has called on the Rulers Council to consider a request for a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) on health.

It said the RCI is needed especially on issues impacting the delisting of nicotine from Poisons Act 1952, tobacco and related industries interference on the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health 2023 and the elimination of the Generational Endgame (GEG).

"It has been almost 20 years since Malaysia became a party to the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) in 2005, yet regretfully the government still does not seem to understand what exactly it has committed to," said the non-governmental organisation in a statement on Saturday (March 16).

It said Article 5.3 of the FCTC has clearly stated the guidelines that parties are obliged to protect its public health policies from commercial and other vested interests of the tobacco industry.

It said the recent revelation by Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni that tobacco lobbyists had stopped the GEG, was an absolute violation of the Convention that has brought about shame to Malaysia.

"This confession also challenges the fundamental principles of the Madani government which slogan is good governance, sustainable development and racial harmony.

"The economic costs and magnitude of health burden from tobacco and vape in the long term could lead to chaos in the society.

"As such the government is fully responsible for safeguarding the health of its citizen, especially that of future generations," added Mywatch.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In Nation

Cops to work with Myanmar and int'l agencies to verify claims of Jho Low's whereabouts
Sarawak to host 15th World Congress on Design and Health in 2026
Perikatan willing to resume MOU talks if terms are fair, says Hamzah
70yo man arrested for murder in Sabah
Rural and Regional Ministry introduces smart village concept to empower rural communities
Couple and associate charged with trafficking 51.9kg of meth in Perak
Trainees urged to uphold integrity and avoid corruption, says IGP
UPNM cadet claims trial to causing hurt to junior using spiked boot in latest bullying case
Mandatory recertification, tougher penalties needed for heavy vehicle safety, says Lam Thye
More than 60 flood victims evacuated in Perak, rising river levels in Terengganu, Kelantan

Others Also Read