Expansion of Smoke-Free Laws in Public Places and Support for Smoke-Free in Malaysia: Findings from the 2020 ITC Malaysia Survey.

Abstract

Smoke-free laws (SFL) are more effective with public support. This study investigated the smoking prevalence, public perceptions of smoking rules, and support for comprehensive SFL among 1047 people who smoke (PWS) and 206 people who do not smoke (PNS) aged ≥18 in the 2020 International Tobacco Control Malaysia Survey. Smoking prevalence was highest in nighttime entertainment venues (85.7%), non-air-conditioned eateries (49.7%), and indoor workplaces (34.6%). Respondents reported that smoking was banned in most indoor workplaces (81.7% PNS, 69.2% PWS), air-conditioned eateries (84.7% PNS, 75.7% PWS), and non-air-conditioned eateries (81.2% PNS, 78.7% PWS), but much less so in nighttime entertainment venues (30.1% PNS, 24.6% PWS). Support for comprehensive SFL in public venues was highest among PNS (≥84.9%) but still substantial among PWS (≥49.9%). PWS under 40, Malay, married, and aware of smoking rules supported SFL more. Robust SFL enforcement is essential in Malaysia to reduce secondhand smoke exposure in public places.