Ignorance of no-smoking sign rule is no excuse, says Melaka exco man

MELAKA: Ignorance is no defence when it comes to complying with the mandatory display of no-smoking signs at designated premises, says a Melaka exco member.

State health, human resources and unity committee chairman Datuk Ngwe Hee Sem said he is fed up with receiving calls from people seeking to have compound notices for non-compliance withdrawn.

He said many of these calls come from community leaders and politicians claiming that the people in their respective areas were unaware of the legal obligation, despite widespread advocacy and media coverage.

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“Most of the time, these callers say they didn’t know the signs had to be displayed, but this is not a valid excuse.

“This requirement has been widely highlighted in the media, and all these people had to do was (read about it),” he told The Star on Wednesday (July 2).

Ngwe said that the obligation applies to all workplaces, including government and private buildings, food outlets, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, convenience stores, public vehicles, and self-service premises such as laundrettes.

“The signs must comply with specifications set by the Health Ministry.

“This obligation falls under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health (No-Smoking Warning Signs) Regulations 2024,” he said.

Ngwe noted that the regulations require signs of standard size and design to be placed at visible locations such as main entrances and areas frequented by customers and guests.

“The signs must also clearly prohibit both smoking and the use of electronic cigarettes,” he said.

Ngwe said full enforcement of this regulation started on April 1 under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024.

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He said that from January to May, 5,828 premises were inspected across Melaka.

Enforcement officers issued 222 compound notices totalling RM55,000 to premises that failed to display the signs according to the latest specifications.

This number comprised 116 workplace premises, 102 food outlets, and four laundrettes.

“If any premises are found not complying with this legal duty, the individual or owner may be issued a compound notice or face court action that could result in a fine not exceeding RM5,000,” he added.

Ngwe urged all premises operators to act swiftly to ensure compliance and avoid unnecessary penalties, stressing that the law exists to protect public health, not to punish.