OWNERS of nightclubs and pubs should avoid serving food at their premises if they feel that the no-smoking policy will affect their clientele, said Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad.

He said club and bar owners have complained that the ruling which came into force on January 1 would drive away customers who smoke.

Dzulkefly was firm in insisting that the smoking ban applies to all premises serving food, including clubs and bars that do.

“Our definition is very clear. Where food is served, you cannot smoke,” he told reporters today.

He suggested that the proprietors set up separate areas for dining and for drinking, so that customers who are not eating will not be affected by the ruling.

“Places like disco, pubs, are no exception, it’s when these places serve food that there are disputes.

“So the owners of these premises must avoid bringing together food (and drinks) in their pub or nightclub,” said Dzulkefly.

As of January 2, the ministry has issued 2,500 warnings, visited 5,746 premises while engaging 10,934 individuals on the smoking ban, he said.

As for the rule that smokers need to be at least to 3m away from any eatery to light up, Dzulkefly said the distance is calculated from the furthest table in the establishment. – January 3, 2019.