A NURSE who was packing food at a hawker stall in a food court along Jalan Utama behind the Penang Hospital was shocked to discover a fried rat in a tray of chicken.
According to reports in China Press, it is believed that the rodent fell into the pan when the hawker was frying chicken and was later placed in the serving tray.
The nurse then reported the matter to the Penang Health Department and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) after which enforcement officers conducted an inspection.
Following the inspection last week, officers found several stalls to be unhygienic, with rat and cockroach droppings around.
Notices were issued to 12 stalls, while nine were ordered to close immediately for 14 days.
As part of the enforcement action, stall owners were instructed to carry out thorough cleaning before they are allowed to reopen. – October 21, 2025
