Yiing (centre) leading the inspection team at a Grade C coffee shop.
Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) is serious about addressing public reports concerning poor hygiene at eateries.
SMC public health, environment and municipal services acting committee deputy chairman Yiing Sy Huat said there were 702 coffeeshops within the municipality.
Of these, 231 are rated Grade A, 466 are Grade B and five are Grade C.
Grade A coffeeshops are the cleanest, followed by Grades B and C.
“Grade A premises are inspected every two years, Grade B annually and Grade C every six months,” said Yiing.
Speaking to reporters during an inspection of the five Grade C-rated coffeeshops in Sibu town, he said, “We take prompt action upon receiving complaints.
“We urge all eatery owners to maintain cleanliness at all times, and we encourage the public to report hygiene issues,” he added.
Regarding the inspection of the five Grade C coffeeshops, Yiing said this was in response to a public complaint.
“During the inspection, we confiscated plastic straws, plates and old cups from the premises.
“The owners of these Grade C shops have been instructed to improve cleanliness within a specific time frame or face further action,” he said.
Yiing said the hygiene rating criteria covered various aspects, including the condition of toilets, kitchen, food preparation areas, fans, tables, chairs and even the staff attire.
Although Grade C-rated coffeeshops were still allowed to operate, he said inspections remained stringent to help improve their ratings.
He also warned that stricter action would be taken against eateries that failed to meet hygiene standards.
“Our goal is for all coffeeshops in the SMC area to achieve at least a Grade B, if not Grade A.
“We want owners to follow the guidelines closely to secure a good rating,” he concluded.
