PETALING JAYA: Food sellers at canteens in national schools do not get subsidies when buying food items and also have to pay commercial rates for electricity, adding to their operating costs.
However, they still have to abide by the Health Ministry’s nutritional guidelines, which can serve to be challenging, says the Malaysian School Canteen Operators Association.
Its president Khairuddin Hamzah said canteen operators have to include fresh ingredients like chicken and vegetables.
“We have specific guidelines for nutritious meals, which mentions the portion of rice, protein and vegetables.”
For example, a plate of nasi goreng must be complete with a cup of rice, a spoonful of shredded chicken, a tablespoon of vegetables, and meet a 260-calorie intake requirement.
“While we follow the guidelines, canteen operators are allowed to add on to the menu where appropriate.
“However, we must adhere to the Food Regulation Act 1985 where processed food like fish is not encouraged,” said Khairuddin.
The ministry guidelines also require the school management to check that meals and drinks are clearly labelled.
Khairuddin was responding to a viral social media post claiming that a canteen operator offered a meagre plate of plain noodles at RM3 per plate.
The post on X, believed to have been shared by the mother of a student, shows plain fried noodles and kuey teow served in shockingly small portions, with no protein included.
There was also a post comparing food sold in canteens at national schools and Chinese schools, with the food at vernacular schools being more nutritious.
Khairuddin said it is illogical for canteen operators to offer a meal such as the one described.
“I have tried to verify the post and its origin but was unable to do so. I only found out that the school and canteen operator have resolved the matter.
“I believe it was offered for free because the portion was too small,” he added.
Khairuddin said operators are burdened with running costs as they are not eligible for subsidised raw materials and pay electricity tariffs at commercial rates.
“The association has requested a meeting with the government several times, hoping there is a way to reduce the canteen operational costs.
“While we understand that prices of raw food materials tend to increase, the government can help with the cost of electricity.
“If exemptions are not possible, at least lower tariffs could be offered,” he added.
