Dr Sim disappointed statement on smoking ban misinterpreted

KUCHING: Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian is disappointed that some individuals have misinterpreted his Sunday statement on the smoking ban to be introduced by the federal government on Jan 1 to mean that Sarawak is against the ban.

The Sarawak United People’s Party ( SUPP) president is also dejected that some others have sensationalised the issue on Sarawak not adopting the federal government’s smoking ban.

“Smoking is very bad for health, not only for smokers but also for non- smokers. We have to do a lot more on all tobacco products not just by legislation

Smoking is very bad for health, not only for smokers but also for non-smokers. We have to do a lot more on all tobacco products not just by legislation but also holistically.

but also holistically,” he said in a statement yesterday.

Dr Sim pointed out that “Sarawak will have our own smoking ban”, taking into consideration the state’s circumstances and Local Authorities Ordinance and By-Laws.

“Just like immigration, we have our own immigration rights.”

He added: “As a cardiologist, I have been advocating antismoking my whole professional life and will continue to do so.”

As a Sarawakian, Dr Sim said he must make sure that Sarawak’s interestm is duly safeguarded and adequately protected under the law especially under MA63 (Malaysia Agreement 1963) and Federal Constitution.

Dr Sim yesterday reiterated the smoking ban at all eateries to be enforced by the federal government next year “does not apply to Sarawak unless the Sarawak government adopts the new policy”.

“Until we adopt (the smoking ban), it is not applicable (in Sarawak). We have our Local Authorities Ordinance,” he stressed.

Last October, Deputy Health Minister Dr Lee Boon Chye announced to enforce the smoking ban at all eateries – air- conditioned and nonairconditioned – including restaurants, coffee shops, open-air hawker centres and street stalls.

Individuals caught smoking at prohibited areas will be fi ned RM10,000 and eateries found not enforcing the ban will face a RM2,500 fi ne.

Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian, Local Government and Housing Minister