Hong Kong’s health minister, Professor Lo Chung-mau, has proposed a unique approach to make the city tobacco-free. His idea involves encouraging people to disapprove of smokers in prohibited areas by staring at them. He believes that collective disapproval from the public can deter individuals from smoking in non-smoking zones. To enforce smoking regulations, authorities may use surveillance footage and public reporting as evidence against violators.
In Hong Kong, specific areas have been designated as no-smoking zones, and those caught smoking in these areas may face penalties. To further combat tobacco use, the government has initiated a public consultation to explore additional strategies, such as banning tobacco sales to certain age groups and raising tobacco taxes. Finding a balance between effective measures and their impact on society is crucial in the ongoing fight against smoking.