By William Isau
SIBU, April 18: A total of 56 notices have been issued by the Sibu Divisional Health Office to the public and food premises owners from January to April 14 this year for various smoking offences.
According to the Sibu Divisional Health Office, individuals would have to pay RM250 each.
“Those who fail to pay the compound notice will be brought to court where the offence is punishable with a fine not exceeding RM10,000 or imprisonment not exceeding two years,” it added.
Premises owners who fail to comply with the rules can be fined not exceeding RM3,000 or face imprisonment not exceeding six months.
The department said ongoing enforcement operations would be conducted at surrounding eateries in the town.
“The prohibition of smoking in eateries is to protect non-smokers from being exposed to cigarette smoke. Therefore, we request the cooperation of all parties so that we comply with this smoking ban,” it said.
It warned that any member of the public who deliberately obstructs the duties of enforcement officers conducting operations could be fined RM10,000 or face imprisonment not more than two years under Section 186 of the Penal Code (Act 574).
The smoking ban in food premises was enforced on January 1, 2020, banning smoking in all eateries.
In addition, premises owners are responsible for ensuring that no-smoking signs are displayed on their premises and taking steps to ensure no one smokes on the premises, including not providing cigarette ashtrays. — DayakDaily
