Kuala Lumpur: The Ministry of Health (MOH) has affirmed that it will not rescind the smoking ban in workplaces, which has been in effect since January 1, 2025. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad emphasized that all related acts and regulations, including Act 852, will remain enforced as planned.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dzulkefly addressed the issue after attending the ‘Shariacare: Pioneering Health with Shariah Values’ symposium. He clarified that the ministry would not withdraw the ban and that enforcement efforts would be intensified starting April 1. This statement came in response to queries regarding a recent legal action filed by lawyer Mohamed Haniff Khatri, who is challenging the government’s decision to uphold the ban.

Dzulkefly stated that while Mohamed Haniff has the right to pursue legal action, the ministry is prepared to face the challenge and is committed to following prescribed legal procedures. He reiterated that the smoking ban is part of a broader government strategy to safeguard public health, aiming to cultivate a smoke-free work environment for the welfare of the public.

The smoking ban, effective since the start of 2025, includes 28 designated non-smoking areas. These areas, recently gazetted under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), encompass locations such as laundromats and workplace buildings, reinforcing the government’s commitment to public health initiatives.