[Intl-tobacco] Malaysia: MMA: Ban all forms of tobacco promotions (fwd)

[Robert Weissman]

MMA: Ban all forms of tobacco promotions
Source: The Star (Malaysia), Monday, 5/29/00

KUCHING: The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) yesterday called for a
complete ban on all forms of tobacco and tobacco brand promotions in the
country.

MMA president Dr P. Krishnan said: "This includes promotion of non-tobacco
products related with tobacco brands, including advertising, sponsorship,
direct marketing, merchandising, loyalty schemes, and free cigarettes.''

He added packing of tobacco products should be dominated by health
warnings with details of harmful effects and emissions.

Dr Krishnan said a specialist cessation service should also be made
available at all health centres, hospitals, and private healthcare
facilities.

"Impact of smoking cessation should be part of the core curriculum and
basic training of health professionals and schools,'' he reiterated.

Dr Krishnan also expressed concern over the increasing rate of HIV
infection through sharing of intravenous needles among drug users.

In Malaysia, there are more than 35,000 notified infections at the Health
Ministry, he said.

"However, the true picture may well be two to three times higher, he said.

"MMA will continue and intensify its efforts in promoting CME (Continuous
Medical Education) activities in the area of HIV medicine both at primary
and secondary levels throughout the country,'' said Dr Krishnan.

Dr Krishnan said MMA is always working together with the Government in its
commitment to achieve a high standard of healthcare towards building a
healthy nation.

He said MMA has addressed many issues with the Government and its related
agencies for the betterment of society.

These include adolescent health, care for the elderly, women's health,
healthcare in the plantation sector, action on smoking and health,
substance abuse and accident prevention, said Dr Krishnan.

Dr Krishnan also announced that the 19th Triennial Council Meeting of the
Commonwealth Medical Association will be held in Malaysia next year.