Penang: The Penang State Health Department has temporarily shut down a well-known supermarket at a Gurney Drive mall over hygiene violations uncovered during a routine inspection. State Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi said the closure is part of periodic enforcement efforts to ensure all food premises in the state comply with established food safety and cleanliness standards.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Gooi clarified that the action was part of routine enforcement rather than a special operation. He stated, "Action will be taken against any premises that fail to meet hygiene requirements," during a press conference for the Youth With Rhythm: Rentak Belia Talent Show 2026 held at Komtar. Earlier, a social media post claimed that a supermarket at Gurney Plaza had been ordered to close until August 2 due to cleanliness issues.

Gooi emphasized that the closure is not intended to penalize operators but to protect public health and ensure businesses operate in a safe environment. He indicated that there have been several food poisoning cases this year, which they aim to prevent from recurring. Gooi also mentioned seeking further details from the health department regarding the action taken against the supermarket.

Meanwhile, Gooi highlighted that the situations concerning COVID-19, hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), and dengue fever in Penang remain under control, with all showing a downward trend. He refuted viral claims of rising COVID-19 infections in several areas, stating there has been no sharp increase in cases.

As of Epidemiological Week 26 this year, cumulative COVID-19 cases in Penang had decreased by 59.7 percent compared to the same period last year, while HFMD cases fell by 86.5 percent. Gooi noted that dengue cases are also declining, although he advised the public to remain vigilant, warning that while Penang's numbers are falling, the national trend is on the rise.