No smoking in public places?

No smoking in public places?

From Warta Kota

The Jakarta governor's plan to ban smoking in public places deserves praise. He has the courage to disturb the "pleasure of many people" with a big fine or detention for violators of the rule.

But can the rule be effectively enforced? In the meantime, traffic signs are not properly observed, public spaces and riverbanks remain occupied by squatters, regional funds are misappropriated, garbage disposal and parking lots are not in good order.

In my view, let us all take a look at ourselves, including officials of the Jakarta provincial administration, so that more urgent matters can be accorded priority before introducing new rules.

While the projected ban on smoking in public is all right, public transportation should first be put in order, action taken against the occupation of public places and a census organized to ensure accurate population counts.

ACHMAD SOLIHIN Cibinong, West Java