Suboptimal hygiene ratings lead to MBPP intervention
FIVE stalls at Tanjung Bungah Food Complex in Penang have been told to clean up their act after receiving Grade C for suboptimal cleanliness.
Penang island mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said standards must be improved as the complex was representing Penang Island City Council (MBPP) in the Housing and Local Government Ministry’s (KPKT) Local Authority Clean Food Premises Campaign 2026.
During a preliminary inspection last month, four stalls achieved Grade A, 46 attained Grade B and five were given Grade C.
“We hope the campaign will encourage them to maintain higher standards of cleanliness,” he said before launching the campaign.
Rajendran added that Penang was participating in four categories under this year’s campaign, which concludes at month end.
He said KPKT had allocated RM10,000 for each category.
Apart from the food complex, Tanjung Bungah Market was selected for the rat pest management category, Batu Lanchang Market for the market category and Bandar Sri Pinang Market for the dengue management category.
Rajendran said participating food complexes must ensure each stall achieved at least Grade B, while public toilets must obtain a minimum four-star rating.
“The campaign also requires sanitation and disinfection works to be carried out consistently and properly documented.
“There must also be uniformity in signboards, aprons and other elements that contribute to the overall ‘wow factor’ of the premises.
“The campaign aims to protect public health from water and food-borne diseases such as cholera and typhoid, while enhancing the cleanliness, safety and image of local authority food premises,” he said.
To meet the requirements, MBPP will clear cobwebs and grease stains from high structures including pillars, fans and light fittings at the Tanjung Bungah Food Complex.
It will also repaint the complex, instal a recycling station, organise gotong-royong sessions and carry out minor repairs.
Rajendran said the facility was equipped with an automated external defibrillator (AED), an electric vehicle charging station, a recycling station and a used cooking oil collection centre.
“MBPP has spent RM92,309 on minor maintenance works at the complex since 2024, covering electrical, plumbing and structural repairs,” he said.
