Malaysia to impose tobacco display ban in multiple states

Key points:

1. Several states in Malaysia are set to implement a ban on displaying tobacco products, requiring stores to hide them in closed cabinets.

2. Individuals can be fined RM 500 to RM 30,000 ($110- $6,800), while organizations can be fined up to RM 300,000 ($68,000) or face imprisonment. Enforcement officers will focus on cracking down on counterfeit products and online sales.

3. The Penang Consumer Association calls for strict enforcement of the law.

2Firsts, reporting from Shenzhen - Stores in several Malaysian states will be required to keep tobacco products in closed cabinets from April 1, in compliance with the Smoking Products Control Act for Public Health 2024 (Act 852), which bans the display of smoking products at points of sale in restaurants and retail outlets. The Star reported.

The Act is implemented starting from October 1, 2024, covering regulations related to the registration, sale, packaging, labeling, and public smoking ban of tobacco products. 

It also includes a ban on the display of all tobacco and e-cigarette products in retail stores. Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Selangor have already notified businesses in advance to prepare for the implementation of this ban.

Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif, Kuala Lumpur Mayor, stated that the Kuala Lumpur Health Department will begin enforcing regulations after the grace period ends.

"Since Act 852 came into effect, the Health Department has visited retail shops selling cigarettes and tobacco products."

The chairman of Selangor youth, sports and entrepreneurship committee chairman, Mohd Najwan Halimi, stated that the state government may follow suit.

"This is a good move, and I think we should consider implementing it in Selangor as well."

The Chairman of the Penang Health Committee, Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, stated that the state health department will oversee all stalls to ensure that tobacco products are not displayed in retail stores.

"Individuals can be fined from RM500 up to RM30,000, while organisations may be slapped with up to RM300,000 in fines, or jailed."

Law enforcement officials will also pay special attention to products that are disguised as toys or sold through vending machines and online platforms.

He added:

"Retailers can only use designated signboards to show the availability of cigarette or vaping products and the prices."

"Certain specialised stores are allowed to display smoking products, but must prominently feature warning signs."

The Consumer Association of Penang (CAP) is urging authorities to ensure the prompt enforcement of Act 852. Its senior education officer and anti-smoking activist, NV Subbarow, said that action must be taken against violators as they have been given sufficient time.