18 Penang Eateries Ordered to Shut Down After More Cockroaches & Rat Droppings Found

Not another one, again! 

Yet again, some eateries were found in a filthy state after the Health Department conducted a raid in Bayan Lepas, Penang. According to Penang Health Department Inspectorate and Legal head Ong Ang Guan, these eateries were targetted by the raid officers because of their bad ratings, which were given to them in the past, reported The Star.

The raid was also joined by enforcement officers from Penang Island City Council and Penang Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry.

Source: the star

During the raid, the officers found out that the eateries were not at all fit for operation because of their disgusting hygiene state. Some of the filthy sightings that were seen during the raid are listed below:

• Cockroaches crawling in between serving plates 
• Dirty cooking utensils 
• Rat droppings

Eww! 

Source: the star

After the raid was concluded, two food courts and 16 stalls were given orders to close down for 14 days under the Penang Sihat operation in Lintang Bayan Lepas 2, on Thursday (15 November 2018). 

Following that, 14 summonses and compounds amounting to RM4,300 were issued for “unhygienic practices”.

Source: the star

On the other hand, Northeast district health officer Dr Umarazina Abdul Kadir shockingly found ketum and cough syrup during the raid at one of the stores which sold beverages. FYI, ketum can be used as painkillers and energy boosters but too much of it can lead to addiction.

They also issued summonses to two underage smokers and shopkeepers who were selling cigarette sticks individually. The shopkeepers were also fined for selling cigarettes below market price.

Source: the star

The massive operation was the ninth raid in 2018 and it was carried out under the Food Act 1983, Food Regulations 1985, Food Hygiene Regulations 2009 and Control of Tobacco Product Regulations 2004.

Good thing that the authorities took immediate action on the eateries for completely disregarding hygiene protocols. We also hope that they will not repeat the same mistake once they are allowed to reopen for business.

Why do you think some eateries are still violating the hygiene regulations, especially after the authorities have clearly indicated that strict action will be taken on them? Let us know in the comments below! 

Also read: Angry Students Expose M’sian Uni For Having Dirty Cafeteria Infested by Disgusting Pests