Terengganu: The Terengganu Health Department (JKNT) has issued 22 notices to food traders for various offences during the first three days of Ramadan. Its director Datuk Dr Kasemani Embong reported that 840 Ramadan bazaar stalls were inspected statewide, resulting in RM2,800 in compound fines.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the offences included employing workers without anti-typhoid vaccinations, non-compliance with food handler attire, and poor personal hygiene among food handlers. Dr Kasemani mentioned that during these inspections, 22 out of 64 planned samples were randomly collected for analysis to ensure compliance with the Food Act 1983 and its regulations. The samples included popular dishes like 'ayam masak merah', 'nasi kerabu', 'ayam kerutuk', 'gulai terung', and 'ayam paprik'.

Meanwhile, Dr Kasemani noted that the department had formed 102 teams comprising 410 enforcement personnel to conduct monitoring duties at this year's Ramadan bazaars. A total of 4,351 Ramadan bazaar stalls have been registered with local authorities and private entities at 70 locations statewide this year.

In addition to Ramadan bazaars, monitoring will also continue at supermarkets, grocery shops, and other raw material suppliers. JKNT has introduced a QR code at Ramadan bazaars to gather information and feedback from the public regarding hygiene standards. Dr Kasemani urged traders to comply with regulations and maintain proper food hygiene. The public is encouraged to adopt an 'observe and choose' approach before making purchases at Ramadan bazaars or shops.