Dirty eateries: Sibu Municipal Council issues notices, confiscates items

SIBU (Nov 1): Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) has issued hygiene notices to food premises here for various violations of cleanliness regulations.

SMC Public Health, Environment, and Municipal Services Action Committee vice chairman Councillor Yiing Sy Huat said the action was taken by committee members and council staff during a recent operation.

“During the operation, seven premises were inspected, with four food outlets receiving hygiene notices,” he said in a statement.

Yiing said they confiscated old and damaged kitchen equipment as well as plastic straws from one of the premises.

The inspection also revealed that the premises had unsatisfactory cleanliness, poorly maintained restrooms, and lacked functional grease traps.

“Some operators were also found not wearing aprons, hats, and shoes while handling food.

“Additionally, there was inadequate pest control and plastic straws were still in use,” he said.

Yiing said SMC will continue to conduct similar operations in future.

“We hope food premises will always comply with the established guidelines and regulations.

“SMC will not compromise with any food premises owners found guilty and they may face fines for repeated violations,” he stressed.

He advised eatery owners to prioritise cleanliness, especially in kitchens and restrooms, to ensure public health.