PENANG is emphasising on food hygiene as part of efforts to maintain its reputation as a gastronomic haven with 154 compounds issued and reputable eateries closed.
Besides closing reputable eateries for poor hygiene standards by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), the state through the health department has issued compounds to food handlers and hawkers here.
The eateries are allowed to be reopened after they meet the cleanliness level of MBPP.
State Youth, Sports, and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said these enforcement actions stemmed from proactive monitoring efforts at various food establishments, including Ramadan bazaars, which commenced last week.
“Our goal is to uphold food safety levels and ensure compliance with the Food Act 1983."
“We have issued 154 compound notices to food handlers for various offences, including failure to obtain anti-typhoid vaccinations, not wearing aprons and head coverings, and wearing jewellery while handling food. These violations have resulted in total fines amounting to approximately RM23,000,” Gooi said.
Gooi revealed that the state government, in collaboration with local authorities, have conducted inspections at 1,176 food premises and examined 2,299 food handlers to ensure compliance with basic food handling requirements.
Majority have fulfilled the conditions.
“We are pleased to report that 90% (2,213) of the food handlers have received their typhoid vaccinations. In addition, 68 food samples have been collected for analysis, and legal action has been taken against identified violations,” he said.
He said this after visiting a Ramadan bazaar at Bukit Tambun.
Present were Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik, Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) councillor Lim Chee Chien, and state health department director Datuk Dr Fazilah Shaik Allaudin.
Gooi also urged the public to be cautious when selecting food to ensure cleanliness and safety. - March 13, 2025.
