Sarawak to implement smoking ban on March 1

The Sarawak government will allow restaurants to designate smoking spots, not less than 3 metres away from the nearest table.

KUCHING: The Sarawak government today agreed to implement the smoking ban at all eateries in the state effective March 1.

State Local Government and Housing Minister Dr Sim Kui Hian said they also approved for the first six months to be the “educational enforcement” period.

“No compounds will be issued during this period,” he said in a statement today, adding the ban was being enforced to protect people from adverse effects of smoking.

Sim also said licenced operators could designate smoking spots, not less than 3 metres away from the nearest table, after getting the approval from the local authorities.

“It shall be the responsibility of the licensee to ensure that such a place is kept clean at all times,” he added.

Earlier this month, the federal government banned smoking at all restaurants and food joints in Peninsular Malaysia.

Once the “education enforcement period”, which is currently in place across the country, expires, the offenders can be fined up to RM10,000 or imprisoned for a maximum of two years.

Restaurant owners who fail to ensure the proper implementation of government directive, including putting up “No Smoking” signs, can be fined up to RM3,000 or jailed for a maximum of six months.

Meanwhile, Sabah will implement the smoking ban on Feb 1 this year. - FMT