16 March 2024
KUALA LUMPUR: An MCA leader says the government should not have been influenced by tobacco companies and e-cigarette lobbyists on the anti-smoking bill, which included the generational endgame (GEG) provision.
“The government needs to explain why it permits tobacco industry lobbyists to influence government policies,” said MCA Youth secretary-general Saw Yee Fung.
“While it is understandable for businesses to advocate for and safeguard their interests, the government’s responsibility is to safeguard the health of the populace.”
Earlier this week, Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni revealed that pressure and lobbying had influenced a “decision” on the anti-smoking bill.