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No smoking ban could also apply to workplaces soon

Jan 14, 2019

The total smoking ban that covers eateries may be expanded to all workplaces as well. 

The Health Ministry says under current laws, smoking is only banned in workplaces that have centralised air-conditioning.

It wants to extend the ban to cover all workplaces.

It was responding to a call by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, to completely ban smoking in all offices and enclosed areas, including office toilets.

Meanwhile, the Ministry has reiterated that e-cigarettes which contain nicotine or tobacco are not allowed at no smoking zones.

However, it explained that under the current laws, authorities are only allowed to take action on vape products that contain nicotine.

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Babysitter screening system expected to be ready in March

The online screening system for babysitters is expected to be ready in March.

The Deputy Prime Minister says the government is coming up with the system to ensure that children are not at risk from those tasked with taking care of them. 

Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail was commenting on the recent case of a 9-month-old baby boy, who died several days after he was abused by his babysitter in Sibu, Sarawak.

Meanwhile, the babysitter's remand order has been extended until Thursday, as police continue to investigate the case as murder.

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Several "draconian" laws under government review

The government is studying six laws, which will either be amended or repealed. 

The Home Minister says the laws include the Sedition Act, SOSMA and the Peaceful Assembly Act.

Meanwhile, on SOSMA, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin says its status is still being discussed with stakeholders, including the Malaysian Bar and NGOs.