About 60% of the 359 underage people caught smoking over the past 11 months in Penang were girls. Penang Health, Welfare, Caring Society and Environmental Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh said the figure was alarming.
“We have to ensure that juveniles are not exposed to smoking,” he said.
Phee warned that those who offer or sell cigarettes to underage children are liable to a minimum RM10,000 compound.
“The local councils also have the right to withdraw their operating licence,” he added in an interview.
As for those smoking in prohibited areas, Phee said they would be asked to give their particulars which would go into a database.
