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Myanmar bans smoking in public places

Myanmar’s military rulers have banned smoking in public places with stiff penalties coming into effect next year.

The government introduced the law Thursday, banning smoking in all areas of hospitals, schools, universities and airports as well as in cinemas and department stores, state media said Friday. Smoking on public transport and in other public spaces is also banned. The law, which caught smokers by surprise, is the first in Myanmar attempting to deal with the health effects of smoking. Fines for breaking the law range from 1,000 to 5,000 kyats (about 0.80 cents to $4) depending on the location and would come into effect from next year, the official New Light of Myanmar said. Vendors caught selling cigarettes in those areas and to people aged under 18 could also be fined and face up to two years in jail, the newspaper said. AFP

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