Consumer group urges govt to set up RCI over GEG lobbying revelation

The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) has called for the establishment of a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) in response to revelations that tobacco and vape industry players had lobbied Members of Parliament to exclude the generational endgame (GEG) component of the tobacco control Bill. CAP emphasized that this action violated the World Health Organisation (WHO) Framework Convention for Tobacco Control.

In a statement issued on Wednesday (March 20), CAP president Mohideen Abdul Kader expressed concern over the influence wielded by the tobacco and vape industry on Malaysian policymakers. He questioned why these industry players were allowed to impact the outcome of the proposed GEG Bill, particularly considering Malaysia’s ratification of the WHO FCTC in 2005.

Mohideen highlighted the admission made by Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukianisman Awang Sauni that industry representatives had engaged with MPs to secure the exclusion of the GEG component. He criticized the complicity of certain policymakers in prioritizing the interests of lobbyists over public health, noting that this decision would perpetuate addiction among Malaysians for the benefit of profit-driven individuals.

Advocating for transparency and accountability, Mohideen stressed the importance of conducting an RCI to investigate the extent of external influence on Malaysian legislators. He warned of the potential consequences if such corrupt practices within the legislative process were left unchecked, suggesting that foreign entities could exploit vulnerabilities to advance their own agendas.

By shining a light on the unscrupulous tactics employed by industry players to sway decision-makers, CAP aims to safeguard the integrity of the parliamentary system and uphold the interests of Malaysian citizens. The organization’s push for an RCI reflects its commitment to ensuring that lawmakers prioritize public health over corporate interests.

In calling attention to the infringement on democratic principles resulting from the industry’s undue influence, CAP seeks to hold accountable those who have disregarded ethical considerations in favor of commercial gains. The proposed RCI represents a critical step towards restoring public trust in the legislative process and preventing future instances of external interference.

By urging the government to address this issue of regulatory capture and industry manipulation head-on, CAP emphasizes the need for comprehensive reforms to safeguard public health policies from being hijacked by vested interests. The organization’s vigilance underscores the ongoing battle against tobacco and vape industry influence within the Malaysian legislative landscape.