Penang: F and B establishments in Penang have been given until September 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 beginning on October 1. State Health, Youth, and Sports Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen highlighted that inspections conducted across the state revealed that some operators have not yet met the conditions outlined in the Act.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, some premises have adhered to the regulations by displaying no-smoking and no-vaping signs and providing information on quit-smoking services. However, there are still outlets that have not complied fully, particularly in terms of ensuring tobacco product display cabinets or shelves meet the standards set under Act 852. Reminder notices have been issued to these establishments, urging them to take corrective actions before the September deadline.

Speaking to reporters during a Clean and Smoke-Free Premises (BeBAs) walkabout with the Penang Health Department at the R and R Bandar Cassia food court and Borealis Commercial Centre, Gooi emphasized that authorities are currently in an advocacy phase. This phase is designed to provide owners with time to make the necessary improvements. However, he warned that enforcement actions, including the issuance of compounds for violations, will commence after September 30.

As of August 5, the Penang Health Department has issued 2,647 compounds for smoking-related offences at eateries and 137 notices to owners for failing to display no-smoking signs. Gooi stated that the programme aims to ensure compliance with hygiene and no-smoking regulations at food outlets, and it emphasizes community empowerment by engaging the public to understand their role and responsibility in supporting public health.

Gooi reaffirmed the Penang Health Department’s commitment to enforcing Act 852 and urged all stakeholders to collaborate in creating a smoke-free environment.