Labuan: With the nation engrossed in the smoking ban debate, a set of graphics is in circulation, said to be from the Health Ministry, which show the 10-feet (3meter) distance where smoking is allowed.One of the graphics which caught the eyes of many for its "comic" element (pic) is that in the case of a sky bar where there is the 3-metre away smoking area. The suggestion was that the smoking zone could be a cubicle suspended in the air 10ft away from the restaurant.
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Restaurant owner Benard KS Wong said the intention of such a graphic could be probably to show the serious intention of the Health Ministry to ensure that its ban is effective but actually it remains to be seen whether the end result would reduce smokers in the country.Another said the question was whether the health departments had enough enforcement staff to monitor the situation non-stop and cover all areas such as Menumbok, Kuala Penyu, Sipitang and the outskirts.
"The law could also result in cigarette butts being thrown everywhere."He also hoped the heads of health departments would ensure that their officers were aware of the six-month grace period provided and not be over-zealous in conducting their duties.
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Under the law, those found smoking after the grace periods could face a fine up to RM10,000 or jailed six months and premises which failed to display the non-smoking signage could be fined RM3,000 or face six months' jail."The fines are certainly jaw-breaking" said labourer. - Sohan Das
