Singaporean youths react to smoking ban extension

Over 90 places will be added to Singapore’s smoking prohibition list as part of the move to a smoke-free future, announced Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment Amy Khor on Monday (Mar 7). 

At the Committee of Supply Debate in Parliament, she said this will ensure more recreational sites can be enjoyed without the exposure to second-hand smoke. 

The extension of the ban covers all remaining parks, ten recreational beaches and PUB sites under its active, beautiful and clean waters programme.

We spoke to some youths, from smokers to non-smokers, on their views toward the ban.

“It is better not to instil an absolute law because it just creates newer problems.

“By stopping others from smoking at one place, they will opt to smoke at another location nearby or do so secretly, which affects others. 

“The Government can instead install more designated smoking corners rather than to completely stop the opportunity to smoke.” – Rafly Ramadhan, 28, Operations Manager

“I know that smoking harms myself and others around me, but I still smoke because I enjoy it. Personally, I don’t think the smoking ban will affect me, since I usually only smoke at home.

“I do recognise that the Government is trying to ban more places to decrease the number of smokers in Singapore. But I do hope that the Government stops banning more places for smoking, as the smokers would eventually have a hard time because we will end up having no place to smoke at. ”  – Sim Joon Hsien, 20, Student

“I think the new smoking ban will bring some positive change as it reduces the places where people can smoke, which then reduces the effect of second-hand smoke.

“I am definitely more in favour of this extended smoking prohibition. Public spaces like the beach and parks should be kept clean and smoke-free as many families go there, and I don’t think it’s fair for them to inhale all the second-hand smoke while they are enjoying their time.” – Danian Aqim, 19, Student

“As I have a sensitive nose, I tend to have breathing difficulties when I inhale secondhand smoke. So I think with less people smoking, it can hopefully result in a cleaner environment with fresher air. Especially since we have to wear masks now, it is already difficult to have a breath of fresh air.

“I’m in favour of the smoking prohibition because it can hopefully encourage smokers to stop smoking too.

“I’m grateful for the stricter regulations as citizens’ health can be further protected.” – Rebecca Liaw, 20, Student

“I do feel that this smoking ban would benefit non-smokers like me. Second-hand smoke is something that many are concerned about, and I don’t think non-smokers should suffer due to the actions of others. I don’t actively avoid areas where people smoke, but I would tend to walk further away if I see one. Or hold my breath when I walk past.

“It is great that currently, Singapore enforces strict smoking bans and demarcate areas for smoking, as it is more beneficial for the non-smoking community when these measures are further tightened. Furthermore, with the current spread of COVID-19, I do think that it is not wise for a group of people to gather with their masks down just to smoke. So I’m definitely in favour of the extended smoking prohibition.” – Michelle Yu, 22, Student

Written by Caleb Lau, Shannon Kuan, Kassandra Kasman, Muhd Zahin Ilmi, and Nurul Mardhiah Omar