30 receive compound notices for smoking at public parks

SIBU: The state Health Department has issued 30 compound notices to those going against the enforcement of nonsmoking zones at public parks, which took effect on June 1 last year.

According to the department, the number of parks across Sarawak gazetted as ‘non-smoking’ zones remains at 76.

The 30 compound notices were issued statewide between June 1 last year and April 30 this year.

“Smoking in public park breaches Regulation 11(1)(w) of Control of Tobacco Product Regulations 2004.

“Offenders can be fined up to a maximum of RM250,” it stated.

On the level of awareness among the public of the prohibition of smoking at public parks, the department said no survey had been conducted on the subject yet.

However, it is continually rolling out campaigns to educate the public through talks, exhibitions, seminars, as well as distribution of pamphlets to park management.

It is reported that 1,571 compound notices were issued under Control of Tobacco Product Regulations 2004 between June 1 last year and April 30 year.

On this, the department explained these compounds were issued to those caught smoking in public places designated as ‘no smoking’ zones, including the public parks, all across the state.