Make S’pore a smoke-free nation

I thank Ms Maureen Foo for her clarion call to doggedly pursue the eradication of smoking in public areas, which are any shared spaces (“More effort needed to educate public on extended smoking ban”; Dec 20).

Given the Government’s renowned determination to pass various laws, it is ironic that it has never sought to stamp out smoking. One would imagine a paternalistic leadership would act to protect its citizens from the known dangers of cigarettes.

The man in the street, meanwhile, must figure out ways to safeguard himself and his family because smoking is still prevalent in our society.

An unprotected non-smoker will encounter challenges at several spots every day. For example, getting from the bus stop to one’s office block and back, in fringe areas of car parks, passing by roadside eateries, at coffee shops, outside MRT stations and when a neighbour’s smoke, including ash and cigarette ends, wafts or falls into one’s home.

The list goes on: The park, beach, near taxi stands and outside shopping centres. It is true most non-smokers dare not tell a smoker off for fear of repercussion or attracting attention.

Perhaps, a campaign driven by the National Environment Agency, using traditional and social media, can promote an anti-smoking culture and equip the non-smoking majority with language that frowns upon smoking as an unacceptable anti-social habit here.

A timeline should be established to make Singapore a smoke-free nation; otherwise, the Government should offer a rationale. What investments and rehabilitative help are being provided from the cigarette taxes collected?

Occupational services and wellness clinics can be mobilised purposefully to help smokers kick the habit for life. In fact, it takes the entire nation to help Singapore realise everyone’s right to enjoy clean air and good health.

Unlike drugs and gambling, which affect an individual and his family, smoking directly afflicts non-smoking children and adults everywhere. They must be protected. It is time the health and environment ministries collaborate with dedicated volunteers to eradicate smoking with resolve.