SEATCA

Until regulations prohibiting tobacco companies from sponsoring sports events are put in place, Indonesia Open organizers are more than happy to do business with PT Djarum.

Under a recently signed three-year deal, the cigarette company will provide the $600,000 prize money at the Indonesia Open starting next year, when the tournament is introduced as part of the inaugural Premier Series.

“Through the Premier Series, we want to show the world that our country can host a tournament with substantial prize money,” Djarum director Yan Haryadi said at a news conference on Tuesday. “It will give Indonesia prestige in the badminton community.”

Yan said that Djarum, which is sponsoring this month’s Indonesia Open Super Series, wanted to demonstrate its commitment to badminton despite what he called a growing domestic campaign against tobacco use.

Bandar Seri Begawan - Manipulative tactics that entice smokers to continue puffing with the aid of e-cigarettes and other new hi-tech tools were blasted yesterday by religious authorities claiming it is wrong to sell such products that violate Section (6) of the Tobacco Order 2005, that states the prohibition of fake tobacco products.

Those who bring, sell or offer to sell items that resembles tobacco products could be fined $10,000.

They claimed that such products are publicised as better in terms of health and the public is urged to be cautious against such cunning tactics.