WHO praises Indonesia’s tobacco control measures ahead of World No Tobacco Day
WHO praises Indonesia’s tobacco control measures ahead of World No Tobacco Day
Ahead of World No Tobacco Day on May 31, the World Health Organization (WHO) has commended Indonesia for its new regulation to curb tobacco use, especially among youth. Government Regulation No. 28 of 2024 raises the minimum age for purchasing tobacco and e-cigarettes to 21, bans single-stick cigarette sales, prohibits flavors and social media advertising, and mandates 50% pictorial health warnings on packaging.
The WHO called this a significant public health milestone, noting rising tobacco and e-cigarette use, especially among youth. Data from the 2023 Indonesia Health Survey shows 30.8% of those aged 15 and older use tobacco. E-cigarette use has surged, with 12.4% of students aged 13–17 now using them.
WHO urged Indonesia to implement standardized or plain packaging to further reduce product appeal and protect youth. This measure is already in place in several G20 and ASEAN countries and has proven effective.
In France, new smoking bans will take effect July 1 in areas frequented by children, such as parks and bus stops. However, café terraces and e-cigarettes are exempt. The policy, supported by 62% of French citizens, aims to protect children’s right to clean air and reduce tobacco-related deaths.
