KUCHING: Kuching City South Council (MBKS) is delighted to note that the smoking ban is being complied with.
“From observation, there is certainly less smoking in coffee shops, food centres, markets, including the hawker centre,” MBKS Mayor Datuk James Chan told New Sarawak Tribune yesterday.
He said those who wanted to light up would now do so from a distance and this bode well for non-smokers and eateries – fewer or no cigarette butts on the floor now.
“I believe most coffee shops, not only under MBKS jurisdiction but Padawan and Kota Samarahan councils as well, have put up the ‘No Smoking’ sign,” he said, adding that through ongoing efforts by the Health Ministry, more are aware of the ban and its penalties.
Chan also said fines were issued by the Health Ministry and not by MBKS.
Meanwhile, observations done by New Sarawak Tribune at several eateries here yesterday saw most smokers lighting up some distance away from the premises.
Once the law comes into full effect, those found smoking at prohibited places could be fined up to RM10,000 or jailed a maximum of two years.
Eatery owners who failed to put up the ‘No Smoking’ sign are looking at a fine of up to RM3, 000 or a jail term of up to six months.
