THE Penang Island and Seberang Perai municipal councils are reminding some 3,000 stall operators at 58 Ramadan bazaars here to ensure that food is prepared and handled hygienically.
A spokesman for the Penang Island Municipal Council (MPPP) said health inspectors will be making their rounds to check on stall operators and making sure that they are following the guidelines issued by the local authority strictly.
He said those flouting regulations could face up to RM1,000 in fines.
He said errant traders will also have their permits for the fasting month revoked.
The spokesman said health officers from the State Health Department would also be making their rounds to curb the practice of poor food preparation and handling.
“We want to ensure the safety and health of the patrons at the Ramadan bazaars.
“Many people, including non-Muslims, want to savour the dishes and delicacies prepared for the breaking of fast.
“Traders, especially food hawkers, must ensure their items on sale are safe, clean and healthy,” he said.
A Seberang Perai Municipal Council spokesman said there were a handful cases of errant traders last year.
“Most of the cases concerned poor food handling.
“Action was taken against them. We are also keeping an eye on food stalls and restaurants,” he said.
Meanwhile, State Islamic Religious Affairs, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Abdul Malik Abul Kassim said the rules and regulations for the bazaars were the same as those for night markets.
The repeat offenders would be blacklisted.
He said the Ramadan bazaars in Little India, Taman Tun Saadon and near the Bayan Baru mosque, will be among the biggest on the island.
