Malaysia should emulate Australia which is the first country to introduce a law on cigarette packaging, said the Consumers Association of Penang (CAP).

CAP president, SM Mohamed Idris said the move made by Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard was bold in the interest of the people and country despite criticisms from giant tobacco companies.

"It should be practiced in the country because it is reported that more than 10,000 people die due to cigarette smoking each year," he said in a statement.

The law under the "Tobacco Plain Packaging Act 2011" to be effective in Australia in December required that no logo is displayed on the cigarette box which would be replaced with a health warning.

- Bernama