Why was the Tobacco Control Bill sent to a special select committee?

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The Tobacco Control Bill Was Referred to a Special Select Committee for Further Review and Consideration of Stakeholder Recommendations

The Control of Tobacco Product and Smoking Bill was referred to a parliamentary special select committee (PSSC) for further review shortly after its initial tabling in the Dewan Rakyat. This decision was prompted by the need to thoroughly consider several recommendations that emerged from recent engagement sessions with both government and non-governmental stakeholders. The Health Ministry proposed this referral, recognizing the PSSC's role in providing a check-and-balance mechanism that incorporates diverse perspectives.
Stakeholder Recommendations Necessitated Further Scrutiny

Following engagement sessions held with various stakeholders, including government bodies, professionals, and non-governmental organisations, several specific recommendations for review and refinement of the Bill were put forth. Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa indicated that these suggestions required additional consideration before the Bill could proceed further. The ministry's proposal to send the Bill to the PSSC underscores a commitment to a comprehensive and inclusive legislative process.
The PSSC Serves as a Check-and-Balance Mechanism

The Health Ministry suggested referring the Bill to the PSSC precisely because of its established function as a check-and-balance. This committee structure is designed to ensure that all viewpoints are taken into account, allowing for a more robust and well-rounded review of proposed legislation. By engaging the PSSC, the ministry aims to facilitate a thorough examination that addresses concerns raised by a broad spectrum of interested parties.
Previous Referrals and Procedural Delays

This is not the first time the Control of Tobacco Product and Smoking Bill, which includes the Generational End Game (GEG) policy, has been sent to a PSSC. The Bill was initially tabled in August by the former Health Minister, Khairy Jamaluddin, and was also referred to the committee for review at that time. The subsequent retabling of the Bill experienced delays due to the dissolution of Parliament on October 10 and the subsequent 15th general election.

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Why was the Tobacco Control Bill sent to a special select committee?

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