SHAH ALAM, March 24 — The Health Ministry (MOH) has confirmed that the individual seen smoking at a food premises in Rawang, which recently went viral, is a civil servant attached to the Gombak District Health Office.
It said the individual was issued a compound fine under Section 16(2) of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) for smoking at an eating place.
In addition, the individual will face internal disciplinary action in accordance with the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations to ensure the integrity of the public service is upheld.
“The ministry will not compromise with any staff member who violates the law, and will continue to enforce regulations firmly, fairly, and consistently,” the MOH said in a statement last night.
It emphasised that food premises are among 28 gazetted smoke-free areas designated to protect public health.
Earlier, claims circulated on social media alleging that an MOH staff member had been smoking at a restaurant in Rawang.
Meanwhile, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad expressed his appreciation to the individual who came forward to report the incident.
He stressed that no one is above the law, including MOH personnel who should set a good example for the public.
“I have instructed that firm action be taken immediately. The individual has been issued a compound under Act 852 and will face disciplinary action,” Dr Dzulkefly said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
He also urged the public to help report such incidents through official channels, including the @KKMPutrajaya X account, should they occur at any designated smoke-free premises.
