135 eateries in Miri warned over smoking ban
MIRI: A total of 135 food premises here have been issued with warning notices for not complying with the state’s smoking ban which came into effect on March 1.
Sarawak Health director Dr Jamilah Hashim said the premises were issued warnings under the current six- month grace period, which focuses on educating eatery owners and smokers on the new rule.
“At the end of the prescribed trial period, actual enforcement action will be taken, with health officials issuing compounds to those found to have breached the ‘ no- smoking’ regulation,” she said during an awareness programme of the new rule at Saberkas Commercial Centre,
At the end of the prescribed trial period, actual enforcement action will be taken, with health officials issuing compounds to those found to have breached the ‘no-smoking’ regulation. Dr Jamilah Hashim, Sarawak Health director
here yesterday.
She revealed the department currently has 480 enforcement officers throughout the state to enforce the ban, adding these officers have been issued with authority cards signed by the Health Minister for the purpose.
“Smokers can only light up at least 10 feet ( 3 metres) away from food premises. Those who f lout the rule face a maximum fine of RM10,000 or two years’ jail.
“For eatery operators who do not put up ‘ no- smoking’ signs, they can be fined up to RM3,000 or jailed for up to six months.
“Those who intentionally allow their customers to smoke at their premises face a maximum fine of RM5,000 or imprisonment of up to a year,” she said.
Dr Jamilah added that eateries owners must also ensure the no- smoking signs put up are the approved size, and that no ashtrays be provided on tables for customers.