Miri beefs up enforcement on food outlets

The city council says it will not compromise on issues that will adversely affect the image of Miri as a resort city. — STEPHEN THEN/The Star

MIRI: Miri City Council and Miri Health and Medical Department will carry out joint enforcement to shut down dirty eateries following a rise in food-poisoning cases in the city.

Miri mayor Adam Yii said the two authorities would jointly conduct random spot-checks on food outlets.

“We will beef up our enforcement and impose stricter monitoring of hygience and cleanliness on food sold to the public,” he told StarMetro.

Yii said the councillors had deliberated on the matter during the last council meeting and agreed on the need to take action against dirty eateries and operators who did not practise hygienic food preparation.

“Disciplinary actions to be meted out will include temporary closure or even termination of licence,” he said.

Yii stressed that as a resort city, Miri City Council would not compromise on issues relating to food and health.

On the council’s meet-the-people session, Yii said the event would be held once a month. Its next event will be organised at Taman Tunku Residential Estate’s market next month.

During the event, city councillors will go to a selected residential area to meet and discuss municipal issues with residents.

Yii said the sessions allowed residents to directly lodge complaints about services and public amenities provided by the council.

Residents could also share their views and suggestions with the councillors without having to go to the city council, he added.