Penang’s smoking rates plummet according to latest survey
Penang ready to enforce total vape ban if Federal Government gives green light
GEORGE TOWN - The National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) reports a 15.2 per cent decline in adult smoking prevalence in Penang, representing tens of thousands fewer smokers.
Penang Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said vape product use in the state is about 3 per cent, or an estimated 38,000 electronic cigarette users.
"These figures are lower than in many other states, indicating that the state government’s ongoing enforcement, health education and public awareness initiatives are producing results.
"Based on NHMS findings, smoking prevalence in Penang has declined for both conventional tobacco cigarettes and electronic cigarettes, including vapes,” he told reporters here after a press conference on football development in Penang.
Gooi expressed hope that implementing a ban on electronic cigarettes would further reduce smoking rates in the state.
He added that the state government is working with the Penang State Health Department, airlines, particularly international carriers, and airport authorities to raise public awareness of the smoking ban in public areas.
"International flights have long made announcements warning passengers about serious offences such as drug trafficking, and we want similar announcements to remind visitors that smoking, including vaping, is prohibited in designated areas, including the George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site.
"The ban is in line with the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852),” he said.
Gooi added that the state government is prepared to comply with any decision by the Federal Government, particularly the Ministry of Health (MOH), regarding a nationwide ban on the sale and use of vape products.
"At the state government level, we are ready to work together with the MOH. Should the Cabinet agree to implement a ban covering not only the sale but also the use of electronic cigarettes, the Penang state government will comply with the implementation,” he said.
Previously, media reports said the MOH plans to implement a vape ban, starting with open-system products this year. - BERNAMA
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