SHAH ALAM – Spotted someone smoking in a restaurant or another no-smoking area?
Members of the public can report suspected smoking and vaping offences through MyLapor, a feature on the MySejahtera app that allows complaints to be submitted without confronting the person involved.
Introduced by the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Oct 12, MyLapor allows the public to report suspected offences under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852).
The ministry said complaints would be sent directly to the nearest District Health Office (PKD), based on where the incident occurred, for review and possible enforcement action.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use the feature.
Step 1: Open MySejahtera
Make sure the MySejahtera app is updated, then open it and look for the MyLapor icon in the shortcuts menu.
Step 2: Start a report
Tap MyLapor, followed by “Submit your concern here”, to access the complaint form.
You can also submit a report through the MyLapor online portal or scan a MyLapor QR code where available.
Step 3: Fill in the details
Select the type of suspected offence and provide the information requested, including where it happened.
Give the location as accurately as possible to help the relevant District Health Office identify the site.
Step 4: Add supporting evidence, if required
Follow the form’s instructions on whether to attach photographs or other supporting information.
Do not put yourself at risk or confront anyone to obtain evidence.
Step 5: Submit your report
Check that the information is accurate before submitting the complaint.
The report will be sent to the relevant District Health Office for review and any necessary follow-up action.
Step 6: Check your report status
Users who submit reports through MySejahtera can receive updates on their complaint status through the app.
The ministry has urged the public to provide accurate and complete information to help with investigations.
What else can you report?
MyLapor also allows the public to report other suspected offences under Act 852, including the sale of smoking products to people under 18 and the advertising or promotion of smoking products.
These reports cover suspected violations beyond smoking in designated no-smoking areas, subject to the offences covered by the law and the options available on the reporting platform.
Where is smoking prohibited?
Smoking is prohibited in 28 categories of designated locations under the relevant regulations, including eateries, government premises, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, entertainment venues and petrol station areas.
The MyLapor section in MySejahtera provides an infographic listing these locations.
Members of the public should check the list before submitting a complaint, as not every public space is automatically a designated no-smoking area.
What are the penalties?
Under Section 16 of Act 852, smoking in a designated no-smoking area is an offence.
A person convicted of the offence can face a fine of up to RM5,000, while the ministry’s published compound rate for smoking in a designated no-smoking area is RM250.
Act 852 also prohibits the advertising, promotion and sponsorship of smoking products, subject to the law’s provisions, and restricts the sale of smoking products to people under 18.
The penalties vary according to the offence and the circumstances of the case.
The ministry has also encouraged premises owners and operators to display MyLapor QR codes prominently and ensure that smoking restrictions are followed.