In a Malaysian first, three Malaysians were awarded the World No Tobacco Day Award by the Director-General of the World Health Organization, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, during the opening session of the WHO World Health Assembly.
The annual global award, given in conjunction with World No Tobacco Day on 31 May, acknowledges contributions to tobacco control by individuals, organisations, and government departments worldwide. This is the first time the award has been presented to recipients from Malaysia.
The three joint recipients are Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, Minister of Health Malaysia; Dr Noraryana Hassan, Deputy Director of the Disease Control Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia; and Associate Professor Dr Murallitharan Munisamy, Chairman of the Malaysian Council for Tobacco Control.
The award recognises their roles in the development and implementation of the stand-alone Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024—an initiative that has been pursued since Malaysia ratified the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) in 2005.
Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad described the award as “a victory for all Malaysians and a testament to our dedication to protect current and future generations from the harmful effects of tobacco and vaping products.”
“Stewarding this Act through Parliament required navigating legal, economic and social challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and multiple changes of government,” Dr Dzulkefly said. “Even now, following the passing of the Act, we continue to strengthen tobacco control measures and respond to emerging issues, such as the vaping concerns seen last week.”
Dr Noraryana added: “This award represents the collective effort and teamwork of many, including the Ministry of Health, other government agencies, and the public – especially civil society organisations.
“We have succeeded in passing the Act, and this is a significant milestone. However, the work is far from over. The real challenge lies in implementation and enforcement to ensure a meaningful impact on public health.”
Dr Murallitharan highlighted the importance of civil society’s role in health policy: “The award is a reflection of the combined efforts of multiple stakeholders.
“The Malaysian Council for Tobacco Control, for instance, unites healthcare professional organisations such as the Malaysian Medical Association, community groups, and academic institutions to improve national health. This recognition belongs to all contributors – past, present and future.”
The 78th World Health Assembly, held in Geneva from 19 to 27 May 2025 under the theme ‘One World for Health’, is the highest decision-making body of the World Health Organisation. Delegates from 193 member states are in attendance. Malaysia is also expected to present several interventions at the Assembly, including on the Integrated Lung Health Resolution.
