KOTA KINABALU – Over 100 water-vending machine businesses in Sabah are operating illegally, said state Community Development and People’s Well-being Minister Shahelmy Yahya during an operation on these fixtures.
He added that only 27 businesses have valid licences from the Health Ministry.
“There are over 70 water vending machine owners in and around the city operating without a valid licence,” he said.
In relation to this, Shahelmy voiced his concerns over the dangers of food poisoning due to the lack of hygiene in these vending machines.
He said machine owners must adhere to the standard operating procedures and obtain licences from the Health Ministry before setting up shop.
Water-vending machine operators are required to obtain a special licence from the Health Ministry in accordance with Regulation 360 (4) of the Food Regulations 1985. – The Vibes, March 3, 2021