SMOKING: Stop the sale of 14-stick packets

2009/10/13

LEE CHENG POH, Penang

I REFER to the report "14-stick packs to go" (NST, Sept 26).

I do not understand why the government has to wait for almost another year, that is the middle of next year, to ban the sale of 14-stick packets of cigarettes.

I believe the proposal to ban the 14-stick packets has been floated for many years now.

Schoolchildren have been seen openly buying cigarettes and smoking in public. Shouldn't there be stricter control in the sale of cigarettes, including the showing of identity cards to determine the age of the buyer? Shouldn't it be an offence for children to smoke, especially in public?

Besides health issues related to smoking, the authorities should also consider safety aspects.

There should be more restrictions in places where cigarettes can be sold.

Selling cigarettes at petrol stations is just not right as it is like a "time-bomb" waiting to explode. I have seen many irresponsible smokers lighting up immediately after purchasing them at the petrol stations.

It is also quite common for fast-food restaurants to be located next to petrol stations. These restaurants should not provide smoking facilities.