F&B Establishments In Penang Given Until Sept 30 To Comply With Smoking Ban

BATU KAWAN, Aug 7 (Bernama) -- F&B establishments in Penang have until Sept 30 to comply with the smoking ban under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), ahead of its full enforcement on Oct 1.

State Health, Youth and Sports Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said inspections statewide found that some operators have yet to meet the conditions stipulated under the Act.

“Some premises have complied, including by displaying no-smoking and no-vaping signs, along with information on quit-smoking services.

“However, there are still outlets that fall short. For instance, tobacco product display cabinets or shelves do not meet the standards set under Act 852. We have issued reminder notices to the owners to take corrective action before the end of September,” he said.

He was speaking to reporters after participating in the Clean and Smoke-Free Premises (BeBAs) walkabout with the Penang Health Department at the R&R Bandar Cassia food court and Borealis Commercial Centre today.

Gooi said authorities are currently in the advocacy phase to allow owners time to make necessary improvements, but warned that enforcement against violations, including the issuance of compounds, will begin after Sept 30. 

As of Aug 5, the Penang Health Department has issued 2,647 compounds for smoking-related offences at eateries, along with 137 notices to owners for failing to display no-smoking signs.

“Today’s programme aims to ensure compliance with hygiene and no-smoking regulations at food outlets.

“It also emphasises the concept of community empowerment, where the public is directly engaged to help them understand their role and responsibility in supporting public health,” he said.

Gooi added that the Penang Health Department remains committed to enforcing Act 852, and urged all stakeholders to cooperate in creating a smoke-free environment.

-- BERNAMA