Copyright dayakdaily
By Amanda L KUCHING, 27 Oct: Full enforcement of Sarawak’s Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2023 (Act 852) is now underway, covering 28 newly gazetted public areas as legally designated smoke-free zones. Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the move aims to strengthen public health while providing clarity and accessibility for both premises’ owners and the public. “We want the public to know that this law is in effect and that everyone must comply,” he said following a briefing session on enforcement requirements and signage regulations held here today. The newly designated no-smoking areas include public event sites, indoor sports facilities, libraries, places of worship, children’s playgrounds, shopping complexes, and public transport facilities. Premises owners are required to display signage in accordance with Regulation 258, which must feature the no-smoking symbol and QR codes linking to quit-smoking support. Signage sizes vary depending on the location, ranging from 40 by 50cm for indoor buildings to 60 by 90cm for main entrances. The Act has been phased in over the past year, with the final provisions coming into full effect on October 1, 2024. “With the Act now fully in effect, all gazetted areas are legally designated smoke-free zones, and compliance is mandatory, with fines enforceable for any violations.” Wee highlighted that MBKS will guide premises owners and the public during the transition, emphasising that the initial focus will be on awareness and education rather than immediate penalisation. He further stressed that the inclusion of QR codes and clear signage not only facilitates public access to cessation resources but also enables effective monitoring of compliance. “This modern approach ensures that enforcement is both lawful and educational, providing the public with tools to improve their health,” Wee added, noting that the council’s overarching goal is to make Kuching a healthier and more liveable city for all residents. — DayakDaily
