04-07-2025
Four George Town eateries shut 14 days over rodent droppings
GEORGE TOWN: Four eateries in George Town have been ordered to close for 14 days after Penang Island City Council (MBPP) officers discovered rodent droppings in food preparation and storage areas during a surprise inspection on the premises.
In a statement today, the city council said the inspection was conducted yesterday as part of its ongoing cleanliness enforcement programme.
The closure, which is effective until July 16, was enforced under By-law 38(1) of the MPPP Food Establishment By-laws 1991.
"MBPP's Licensing Department found the droppings in kitchen and storeroom areas, an indication of poor pest control and potential contamination risk.
"The presence of rodent droppings in places where food is prepared or stored is a serious health violation.
"It not only breaches food safety regulations, but also poses a direct threat to public health," it said.
The city council said further checks showed that some food handlers had not been vaccinated against typhoid, while others failed to wear proper attire, including aprons and head coverings.
The city council reminded food business operators that hygiene must be a priority and not sacrificed in pursuit of profit.
"Cleanliness must be maintained at all times, especially in kitchens.
"Food outlets that fail to do so risk enforcement action," it added.
MBPP said it would continue to conduct unannounced inspections to ensure compliance and safeguard the health of consumers.
