THE Penang Health Department has issued 154 compound notices to food handlers across the state between early January and March 10 this year.
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 in conjunction with the fasting month.
“Our goal is to uphold food safety standards and ensure compliance with the Food Act 1983 and its associated regulations.
“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 added that the state government, in collaboration with local authorities, has conducted inspections at 1,176 food premises and examined 2,299 food handlers to ensure compliance with basic food handling requirements.
“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.
Gooi made these remarks during an inspection at the Ramadan bazaar in Batu Kawan yesterday (March 12).
Also present were Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik, Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) councillor Lim Chee Chien, and State Health Director Datuk Dr Fazilah Shaik Allaudin.
Gooi also urged the public to be cautious when selecting food to ensure cleanliness and safety.
“Consumers can safeguard themselves from foodborne illnesses by practising the ‘Observe and Choose’ and ‘See, Smell, Taste’ methods before purchasing food,” he advised.
He also reassured the public that the Penang Health Department will continue its advocacy, monitoring, and enforcement efforts to uphold food safety standards across the state.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad