Don't rush GEG Bill, still too many questions, say sundry merchants

A business group has expressed concerns over the implementation of the Generational Endgame (GEG) Bill and called for no rush in tabling it in Parliament. The Federation of Sundry Goods Merchants Associations of Malaysia (FSGMAM) criticized the government’s decision to expedite the tabling of the revised Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Bill 2023 in the Dewan Rakyat on October 10. FSGMAM President Hong Chee Meng stated that there has been no discussion with retail players, who are the frontliners in implementing the proposal. The group is particularly worried about the potential requirement for retailers to check the MyKad of every adult born after 2007, and the possibility of a digital application similar to the MySejahtera app for smokers born before 2007. They also highlighted concerns over higher fines for suppliers and the lack of details on the implementation.

In addition, FSGMAM raised issues regarding the risk of counterfeit identification and third-party transactions. They stated that retailers are unsure about the penalties they may face in such situations, as there has been no briefing or discussions conducted by the Health Ministry with the retail sector. FSGMAM suggested putting the GEG provisions on hold until the ministry comes up with a plan. They emphasized the need for the government to simplify business procedures instead of introducing more complex policies, especially during a time of economic uncertainty.

The GEG Bill aims to prohibit those born in 2007 and subsequent years from smoking, buying, or possessing any type of smoking product, including electronic cigarettes or vape products, even after reaching the age of 18. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had previously mentioned that nicotine vape liquids are still being illegally sold, with estimated sales of over RM2 billion. The government proposed imposing taxes on nicotine-based products used in e-cigarettes, with half the excise duties allocated to the Health Ministry to support the GEG Bill.

Source: https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/10/05/geg-bill-up-for-second-reading-on-oct-10-says-dr-zaliha

Source: https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/08/26/health-groups-table-geg-bill

Source: https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/06/26/the-data-is-in-support-the-bill-says-health-minister