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Enforcement of Malaysia's Smoking Ban Sparks Controversy

Dave Grunebaum

   KUALA LUMPUR - At a popular Kuala Lumpur area open-air food court,
   EiswaryThirumalaienjoys a meal with her family. She says in the past,
   secondhand smoke would sometimes ruin the atmosphere. "Actually,it's
   reallydiscomfortablefor us because while we areeatingwe smell the
   smoke," she says. "Soit's not healthy for us while we are eating."

   A year ago, a new law prohibited smoking at all eateries in Malaysia.
   Previously, smoking was banned inside all air-conditioned restaurants.
   But the new law bans smoking within three meters of any table or chair
   at any indoor or outdoor eatery.

   There was a one-year phase-in periodin whichoffenders were given
   warnings, but since January, violators have faced fines ranging from
   $35 to $85. During January, more than 5,000 tickets were issued
   nationwide. "If they come out with this penalty,maybe it will give the
   person a lesson," saysThirumalai.

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