The issuance of Government Regulation (PP) No. 28 of 2024 marks a significant shift in cigarette packaging and advertising regulations in Indonesia. This regulation mandates substantial changes to enhance public health awareness and curb the influence of tobacco advertising.
Key Changes in Cigarette Packaging
Under Article 438 of PP No. 28/2024, cigarette packaging must prominently display health warnings. These warnings must cover at least 50% of the packaging, ensuring they are visible and impactful. This initiative aims to inform consumers about the health risks associated with smoking more effectively.
Hasbullah, a representative from the National Tobacco Control Commission, expressed appreciation for these changes, stating, “We have been waiting for four years for this. It’s a good step forward that people must be at least 21 years old to purchase cigarettes, and retail sales are prohibited.” This move is expected to reduce the accessibility of cigarettes to minors.
Restrictions on Tobacco Advertising
PP No. 28/2024 also introduces stringent restrictions on tobacco advertising. Outdoor media, such as videotrons, are now only allowed to air advertisements between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM local time. This measure is intended to minimize the exposure of tobacco advertisements to the general public, especially children and adolescents.
In addition, television advertisements must adhere to strict guidelines. They must include a warning stating, “Prohibited from selling and giving to individuals under 21 years old and pregnant women.” Advertisers are also prohibited from targeting children, teenagers, and pregnant women. Furthermore, the use of cartoons or animated characters in advertisements is forbidden to prevent appealing to younger audiences.
Comprehensive Regulation for Public Health
The regulation is part of the implementation of Law No. 17/2023 on Health, which aims to control addictive substances, including tobacco. It includes over 1,127 articles, replacing 26 previous government regulations and five presidential regulations.
President Joko Widodo officially signed the regulation on July 26, 2024, signaling a firm commitment to public health and tobacco control. This comprehensive approach addresses not only packaging and advertising but also the sale of single cigarettes, further tightening the reins on tobacco distribution and consumption.
The new measures have garnered attention and support from public health advocates, who view them as crucial steps in reducing smoking rates and protecting vulnerable populations from the harms of tobacco use. By increasing the visibility of health warnings and restricting advertising, the government aims to foster a healthier society and reduce the burden of smoking-related illnesses.
