Abdullah Sani Abdul Hamid (PH – Kapar) said a smoking section, like the one in Parliament, was a pressing need.

“The rights of smokers must be considered,” he said when debating the 2020 Budget.

Abdullah’s proposal got the approval of Barisan Nasional MPs, with Shahidan Kassim telling him that he “is the best”.

Abdullah went on to suggest for the government to also allow restaurants to have a smoking section, on grounds that it should not limit the people’s freedom.

“Just give them a spot. I feel sorry for those who have to smoke three metres away, like they are refugees,” he said.

The smoking ban was imposed on Jan 1, with fines of up to RM10,000 or three years’ jail on patrons as well as owners of premises who fail to implement the rule.

Under the rule, smokers can only smoke three metres away from any restaurant.

Earlier, Abdullah urged the government to carry out a detailed study on vape, saying that it was an efficient way to help people stop smoking.

It can also help stimulate the national economy as it provides job opportunities for the youth, especially in the production of vape liquids.