#HongKong's health secretary, Lo Chung-Mau, has proposed an unconventional method to curb #smoking in prohibited areas: public staring.

Speaking at a health meeting, Lo suggested that citizens take an active role in discouraging smoking by confronting violators with disapproving looks.

Current laws prohibit smoking in restaurants, workplaces, indoor public spaces, and certain outdoor areas. While police enforcement faces challenges, Lo emphasized the importance of fostering a non-smoking culture where people voluntarily comply with regulations.

"When the members of the public see people smoking in non-smoking areas, even if no law enforcement officers can show up immediately, we can stare at the smokers," Lo said.

The official likened the approach to societal norms like queuing for buses, which do not rely solely on legal enforcement but on cultural etiquette.
#HongKong #smoking