Kuala lumpur: The state Health Department conducted inspections on 5,787 food premises across Melaka, resulting in the issuance of 1,939 cleanliness violation notices from January 1 to November 22.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Health, Human Resources and Unity Committee chairman Datuk Ngwe Hee Sem stated that the notices led to fines totaling RM260,475 under the Food Hygiene Regulations 2009. Additionally, 77 food premises were mandated to close for 14 days under Section 11 of the Food Act 1983 due to severe hygiene violations.
Ngwe highlighted that the statistics reveal an unsatisfactory level of cleanliness in food premises, with approximately one in five failing to meet the Health Ministry's hygiene standards. The premises ordered to close included hotel kitchens, restaurants, shops, and school canteens, where issues such as rat droppings, cockroach infestations, and poor overall hygiene were discovered.
He made these comments after the Clean and Safe (BeSS) recognition ceremony, attended by state Health director Dr. Ruzita Mustaffa. Ngwe advised consumers to be cautious about food safety when dining out, suggesting the 'Observe and Choose' principle, which involves selecting establishments with good hygiene practices and BeSS Recognition.
Between January 1 and October 31, 91 food premises in Melaka received BeSS recognition, including 15 school canteens and 76 other food outlets. The BeSS recognition is valid for three years and requires premises to score at least 86 percent in hygiene inspections.
Ngwe further explained that mandatory criteria for BeSS recognition include registration with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), the Food Information System of Malaysia, a valid local authority license, and completion of anti-typhoid vaccinations and Food Handler Training Courses for all food handlers.
He emphasized that BeSS recognition not only signifies a commitment to food safety but also enhances customer confidence in the quality of food and beverages provided. At the ceremony, 26 ZUS Coffee outlets in Melaka were awarded BeSS recognition.