Over RM1 million worth of smoking fines issued– Health Ministry

PUTRAJAYA – The Health Ministry (MoH) issued 4,753 compounds worth RM1,168,050 following the enforcement of the Tobacco Products Control Regulations (PPKHT) 2004.

Health Director-General Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan said the number of fines was the result of the ministry's enforcement actions against 23,093 premises visited during last September.

"Meanwhile, through the enforcement action of the Destruction of Disease-Bearing Insects Act 1975 for the purpose of prevention and control of dengue fever, a total of 2,566 compound worth RM1,283,000 with an average of RM500 each were also issued for the same period," he said in a statement on Friday.

Dr Radzi said out of that number, 523 cases have been registered for court action.

"At the same time more than 95 cases have been convicted in court with a total fine of RM161,650," he said.

Meanwhile, through the enforcement of the Food Act 1983, he said that a total of 6,003 food premises had been inspected.

"A total of 176 inspected premises have been given a temporary closure order under Section 11 of the same act," he added.

Radzi said that the temporary closure of food premises was enforced as a measure to ensure the cleanliness of the premises and the food served.

"Enforcement action is the last option taken by the ministry.

"The public and all parties are requested to carry out their respective duties and responsibilities so that the effectiveness of the implementation of health activities reaches an optimal level," he said.