Malaysia to Ban Open Display of Tobacco Products from April 1
As of April 1, 2025, several Malaysian states will prohibit the open display of tobacco products in shops, in compliance with the Smoking Products Control Act for Public Health 2024 (Act 852). Retailers in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Selangor will be required to keep cigarettes and other smoking products hidden from view in closed cabinets.
Act 852, which came into effect on October 1, 2024, regulates the registration, sale, packaging, labeling, and prohibition of smoking in public places. It also includes a display ban on all tobacco and vape products in retail outlets. The Ministry of Health (MOH) provided a grace period until April 1, 2025, before full enforcement of the act.
Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif stated that the Kuala Lumpur Health Department had visited retail shops selling cigarettes and tobacco products to provide explanations and announcements about the upcoming ban. Enforcement will begin upon the expiration of the grace period on April 1, 2025.
Selangor is also likely to implement the ban, with the matter being part of the state exco meeting agenda. Mohd Najwan Halimi, Selangor youth, sports, and entrepreneurship committee chairman, described the move as “the right move” and expressed support for its implementation in the state.
In Penang, the state Health Department will monitor stalls to ensure compliance with the ban. Individuals who violate the act can face fines ranging from RM500 to RM30,000, while organizations may be fined up to RM300,000 or face jail time. Enforcement officers will also target products disguised as toys or sold via vending machines and online platforms.
Retailers are allowed to use designated signboards to indicate the availability and prices of cigarette or vaping products. Certain specialized stores may display smoking products but must prominently feature warning signs.
Sundry shop owner Tan Chiew Beng expressed his readiness to comply with the new regulations, despite the potential drop in cigarette sales due to reduced visibility. He acknowledged the financial and health burdens of cigarettes on lower-income consumers and stated that he would only sell upon customers’ requests.
The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) urged authorities to ensure there are no further delays in enforcing Act 852. Senior education officer and anti-smoking activist NV Subbarow emphasized the importance of taking action against violators and protecting non-smokers from unnecessary promotion. He also noted that minors who have not been exposed to smoking will be less likely to develop the unhealthy habit.
