SHAH ALAM: Three food outlets in Bukit Sentosa, Hulu Selangor, have been ordered to close immediately following the discovery of rat droppings in their food preparation areas.
The Hulu Selangor Municipal Council (MPHS) said it conducted Op Suci last Wednesday together with the Hulu Selangor District Health Office to detect violations committed by the premises.
Among the issues identified were outlets operating without an MPHS business licence, food handlers lacking typhoid vaccination, unclean refrigerators, and lack of temperature control.
“In addition, cooking equipment was not clean, kitchen floors were slippery and waterlogged, the use of egg cartons and wooden chopping boards posed a risk of cross-contamination, food waste traps were not maintained, toilets did not meet standards, and several other non-compliances failed to meet MPHS hygiene requirements,” it said in a statement.
MPHS added that six compounds were subsequently issued under the Food Establishment By-Laws 2007.
“This action is a key component of the enforcement operation to ensure food outlets in the MPHS area comply with hygiene standards.
“At the same time, the district health office issued three compounds under the Food Act 1983, followed by a warning notice from the Building Department and 13 compounds from the Enforcement Department for offences including operating without a licence, unauthorised advertising, and obstructing sidewalks,” it added.
MPHS explained that the immediate closure orders were accompanied by a 14-day closure notice to allow the owners to carry out thorough cleaning before a re-inspection is conducted.
“We hope this action raises awareness among all food outlet operators to be more attentive to hygiene and food safety.
“Good hygiene practices not only ensure consumer health but also help enhance business image and create a healthier and safer environment for the local community,” it said.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
