Even smoking at outdoor places such as beaches, swimming pools, sports grounds, museums and most areas of public parks will be forbidden.

Amy Choi, a 27-year-old law student, supports the smoking ban because she hates breathing in secondhand smoke, even though she enjoys a puff when she drinks.

"I don't like people smoking next to me. It's so smoky and smelly," she said.

But maverick law maker Leung Kwok-hung opposed the new law, saying a complete ban is unnecessary.

"Smoking is not permitted in many of the outdoor areas. The coverage is so large but the smoking area is so limited," he said.

Anyone caught breaking the new anti-smoking law will be subject to a maximum fine of HK$5,000 (US$644).

The ban does not yet include nightclubs, bars, mahjong parlors, bathhouses and massage establishments - such venues have until July 1, 2009, to implement the law.