Community health specialist Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh said having a PSC look into the bill was wise as it would be able to address the concerns that had been raised.
“The PSC can advise on aspects that the GEG did not consider, such as ways to curb illicit trade of cigarettes, the penalties imposed on those caught and harm reduction alternatives,” she told FMT.
She added that this would not necessarily delay the implementation as she believed the PSC would prioritise the wellbeing and health of the country’s youth.
Earlier today, the Dewan Rakyat voted to refer the bill to a PSC through a voice vote. Health minister Khairy Jamaluddin tabled the bill for its second reading and debate yesterday.
The bill seeks to ban the use, possession and sale of cigarettes and vape products to those born after 2007.
It has met with resistance from several quarters, including MPs and industry players.
Malaysian Medical Association president Dr Koh Kar Chai said although they would have preferred to have seen the bill voted on today, the next stage was a positive step in improving it.
“We believe most MPs do support the GEG in principle but some fine-tuning to the GEG bill is necessary for its smooth and effective implementation.”
Economist Carmelo Ferlito said that it was a good move to refer the GEG bill to the PSC, allowing more time for deliberation.
“However, I would suggest taking it further by having a panel of experts from different fields to give a more holistic view,” he said, pointing out that Khairy’s “ideological crusade” did not have sufficient scientific proof.
Meanwhile, Segambut MP Hannah Yeoh pointed out that the PSC members must go through disclosure of interest before they start working on amendments to the bill.
“They must state their connection with prohibited items or by way of new regulations to be introduced,” she said in a tweet.
Khairy said he agreed to refer the bill to the PSC to ensure that a comprehensive law was passed. The PSC would produce a report on its recommended improvements within a month or no later than the start of the next parliamentary sitting.