KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry has issued three compound notices after it received 19 complaints over cleanliness and food safety issues at Ramadan bazaars nationwide.
A total of 19 complaints were received nationwide, eight of which have already been resolved and one premises closed under section 11 of the Food Act 1983, the ministry said in a statement today.
With over 10,570 Ramadan bazaar premises inspected across the country by March 22, Health Ministry is actively monitoring the situation.
Investigations are ongoing regarding a viral Facebook post on a piece of cloth found inside a martabak purchased at the Pandan Desa Ramadan Bazaar, Kuala Lumpur.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Territories Health Department and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).
In light of these incidents, the ministry has reiterated the importance for all food operators and traders to ensure hygiene and food safety standards and to practice the health education that has already been provided to them.
This includes refraining from preparing food too early, limiting food exposure to room temperature for no more than four hours, and ensuring proper food storage to prevent contamination.
The ministry also reminded traders on the the impact of the current hot weather on food safety, urging heightened vigilance due to faster bacterial reproduction and food spoilage.
It assured the public of its commitment to maintaining food safety throughout Ramadan through continuous monitoring and enforcement efforts.
Consumers with any concerns regarding food safety are encouraged to reach out to their nearest district health office or visit the ministry website and Facebook page dedicated to the Food Safety and Quality Programme.