Compiled by DIYANA PFORDTEN, C. ARUNO and R. ARAVINTHAN
A RECENT study has revealed that about 80% of toilets at food outlets and petrol stations across Malaysia are dirty, foul-smelling and poorly maintained.
The survey, conducted by the National Consumer Foundation of Malaysia (YPNM), inspected more than 2,000 toilets at eateries and petrol stations, including those in Sabah and Sarawak, Utusan Malaysia reported.
According to the survey, many of these facilities lacked basic hygiene necessities such as soap, adequate water supply and essential cleaning equipment.
YPNM president Datuk Dr Mohd Firdaus Abdullah said toilet cleanliness reflects not only the people’s mindset but also the nation’s image.
“Cleanliness of public toilets is a vital aspect of our culture and national identity.
“Unfortunately, many food business operators still treat this issue as trivial,” said Mohd Firdaus.
The foundation’s findings highlight an urgent need for stricter enforcement and greater awareness regarding hygiene standards, especially in high-traffic public facilities.
> Kosmo! reported on a mother’s tireless journey of love and sacrifice in raising her special needs son, who has been bedridden since he was a baby.
Zuriana Daud’s eldest son Muhammad Aiman, now 17, suffers from physical disabilities that require full-time care.
She said he drinks special formula milk, wears disposable diapers and needs round-the-clock attention.
“He’s easy to care for. When I look at his face, I feel strong. He’s a blessing, not a burden,” said Zuriana.
The above articles are compiled from the vernacular newspapers (Bahasa Malaysia, Chinese and Tamil dailies). As such, stories are grouped according to the respective language/medium. Where a paragraph begins with a, it denotes a separate news item.
