FOUR restaurants in the vicinity of Lebuh Penang within George Town were slapped with a total of 11 compounds during a joint operation by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) Urban Services Department and Licensing Department today.
MBPP Urban Services Department director Mubarak Junus, who oversaw the operation, said the compounds, worth a total RM3,500, were issued to deter the operators from neglecting hygienic practices.
“We’ve received quite a number of complaints regarding indiscriminate throwing of food waste into the drains. Punitive action must be taken and it’s high time, they must be responsible for the cleanliness of their premises, not just the local authorities,” Mubarak told reporters.
The compounds, ranging from RM100 to RM500, were for offences such as littering, discharging of food waste into drains owing to faulty grease trap, improper food handling and obstruction.
Mubarak said they would revisit the eateries to see if there was any improvement, failing which MBPP would take court action against the operators.
“We’ve done the education awareness drive already. Repeat offenders who have not paid up their compounds will be referred to a committee which will then decide on what action to take,” he said.
Mubarak added that similar operations were held simultaneously today in four other places, mainly at the commercial areas in Datok Keramat, Pulau Tikus, Batu Maung and Bayan Baru. About 50 MBPP personnel were involved.
On top of this, he said anti-litter campaign is also conducted from time to time at happening places, such as the Esplanade and Bukit Jambul.
“We’re checking on the cleanliness of eateries every week. It’s an ongoing effort to keep the city clean,” he added.
Story by K.H. Ong
Photos courtesy of MBPP