A landmark telethon officially commenced on Friday signaling a nationwide media effort to support the government's landmark generational ban against tobacco.
The special broadcast aims to encourage all individuals born on or after 1 January 2007, to embrace a smoke-free future, with the generational ban on tobacco use set to take effect from Saturday. The telethon which began at 3:45 pm on Friday is scheduled to run continuously through tonight, concluding at 12:00 am on Monday, engaging the public on the critical health initiative.
The extensive programming for the telethon includes in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, alongside vital health and religious information concerning tobacco use. Diverse perspectives from youth, parents, and school students will be featured, ensuring a broad discussion on the implications and benefits of the ban. Various other segments are also planned to maintain viewer engagement and disseminate comprehensive information.
Complementing the telethon, a 24-hour run also began on Friday at 4:00 pm, designed to mark the historic implementation of the Tobacco Ban Act. This public event, which will conclude at 4:00 pm on Saturday, offers a range of activities, including a dedicated quit-smoking clinic, an advocacy stall for public education, live music, and a photo booth for participants.
The government engineered amendment to the Tobacco Control Act stipulates that once the bill becomes law, no person born on or after 1 January 2007, will be legally permitted to smoke. Additionally, the legislation will strictly prohibit the sale of any tobacco products to individuals within this age bracket, ultimately creating a smoke-free generation.