Pharmacists urge immediate action on anti-smoking law to protect public health

The urgency to implement stricter anti-smoking laws in Malaysia has never been more pronounced. Pharmacists across the nation are raising their voices, urging the government to expedite the enforcement of the updated anti-smoking legislation. This call to action comes amid growing concerns about the health risks associated with smoking and the increasing prevalence of vaping among the youth.

Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad, a prominent figure in the health sector, recently announced that the updated anti-smoking law is set to be enforced this year. However, the delay in passing the bill has left many healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, deeply concerned. They argue that any further postponement could have dire consequences for public health.

The Poisons Act has been cited by pharmacists as a critical tool in the fight against smoking. They have urged the Health Ministry to conduct raids on vape shops, which are seen as a significant threat to the generational tobacco ban. The proliferation of vape shops and the easy accessibility of vaping products to minors have exacerbated the situation, making it imperative for the government to take swift action.

The pharmacists' are frustrated with the government's lack of commitment to passing the anti-smoking bill. "The intentional delay in passing the tobacco bill is a disservice to public health," said a spokesperson from the pharmacists' group. "We cannot afford to wait any longer. The health of our younger generation is at stake."

The pharmacists' group has condemned the intentional delay after the Generational End Game (GEG) decoupling, which was supposed to be a significant step forward in tobacco control. The GEG aims to create a smoke-free generation by prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to individuals born after a certain year. However, the decoupling of this initiative from the main bill has led to further delays and uncertainty.

Pharmacists are particularly concerned about the government's commitment to protecting public health. They argue that the delay in passing the anti-smoking bill sends the wrong message to the public and undermines efforts to reduce smoking-related diseases. "We need a strong and decisive stance from the government," said another pharmacist. "The health risks of smoking are well-documented, and we cannot afford to be complacent."

The call for immediate action is not just about enforcing the law but also about raising awareness and educating the public about the dangers of smoking. Pharmacists play a crucial role in this effort, providing valuable information and support to individuals looking to quit smoking. They emphasize the importance of smoking cessation programs and the need for comprehensive tobacco control policies.

The delay in passing the updated anti-smoking law in Malaysia has sparked significant concern among pharmacists and other healthcare professionals. The urgent need to protect public health, particularly among the younger generation, cannot be overstated. The government must act swiftly to enforce the anti-smoking legislation and take decisive steps to curb the growing threat of smoking and vaping. The health of the nation depends on it.