MELAKA: The Melaka Health Department issued 1,933 food hygiene violation notices totalling RM320,900 between Jan 1 and Nov 23 this year. State Health director Dr Ruzita Mustaffa reported that 49 food premises, including four school canteens, were ordered to close for 14 days under the Food Act 1983 due to rat droppings, cockroach infestations, and poor hygiene standards.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the department inspected 5,841 premises, including schools, restaurants, and hotels during the period and recorded 20 food poisoning outbreaks in Melaka. Dr Ruzita attributed the outbreaks to improper food handling, such as delayed consumption, cross-contamination, and inadequate thawing of frozen food.

She further mentioned that 191 food premises, including 22 school canteens and 50 food outlets, received Clean, Healthy, and Safe (BeSS) certification over the past three years, with 72 awarded this year. The certification aims to ensure consumer confidence in safe, hygienic food, marked by the BeSS logo dis
played at certified premises. This initiative supports Visit Melaka Year 2024 by promoting the state as a gastronomic destination.

To qualify for BeSS certification, premises must score at least 86 per cent in hygiene inspections, register with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), and obtain local authority approval. Additionally, food handlers must complete training and receive typhoid vaccinations.