AdminHartal Doktor Kontrak (HDK), a prominent advocate for medical fraternity reform and the rights of junior doctors, has issued a stern warning regarding the delay in passing the “The Control of Smoking Product for Public Health Bill 2023.” HDK, recognized for its commitment to public health, has underscored the urgent need to combat the dire consequences of smoking and vaping in Malaysia.
In a press release statement, the organization emphasized the devastating impact of tobacco-related illnesses on the nation’s health and healthcare system. They declared, “The clock is ticking, and with each passing moment, our nation’s health deteriorates.”
HDK did not hold back when addressing the grim statistics associated with smoking and vaping. They stated unequivocally, “Do not ignore the brutal truth: tobacco-related illnesses snatch over 20,000 lives from our grasp every year in Malaysia. The vaping epidemic is equally dire, addicting our youth to nicotine and exposing them to a hazardous path.”
The financial implications of this health crisis were also stressed in the statement. It was pointed out that “billions of ringgits are hemorrhaged annually in healthcare costs, all tied to the grip of smoking and vaping-related ailments. This is not just a health crisis; it’s an economic disaster.”
Hartal Doktor Kontrak’s demand for swift action
In a strong and assertive tone, HDK made their demands clear: “We do not ask; we demand. Members of parliament and the Ministry of Health, there is no room for complacency.” They called for the expedited passage of this vital bill through the Dewan Negara and Dewan Rakyat, culminating in the ultimate seal of approval from the Agong through Royal Assent.
The organization underscored the urgency of the situation, emphasizing that any delay in passing the bill would only prolong the suffering of the Malaysian people. “We stand united, unwavering, and unapologetically fierce in our call for action. It is time to prioritize the health and well-being of our beloved Malaysia over industry interests.”
“The Control of Smoking Product for Public Health Bill 2023” includes the generational end game (GEG) smoking ban provision. This bill is being hailed as a lifeline to a healthier and more prosperous future, as it is designed to target the post-2007 generation with the aim of breaking the chains of addiction and securing the health of future generations.
Reports indicate that the revised bill is expected to be presented at the cabinet meeting and subsequently brought to the Dewan Rakyat for deliberation. Health PSSC chairperson Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad had previously highlighted the collaborative effort of the PSSC and experts in revising the bill, with a focus on a “non-punitive and protective-preventive” paradigm for the GEG.
Jimmy Tan
