The Penang government, through the Penang Health Department (JKNPP), remains firmly committed to ensuring that all food sold to consumers is safe, clean, and of high quality.
Speaking at the launch of the Chinese New Year Food Safety Operation — Ops Ma 2026, held at 1st Avenue Penang today, Penang Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said the initiative is in line with provisions under the Food Act 1983 and its related regulations, including by-laws enforced by local authorities.
“To ensure food safety standards are consistently maintained throughout the festive season, Ops Ma 2026 has been implemented statewide.
“This operation focuses on compliance with hygiene and food quality requirements through inspections of food premises, physical checks on products including packaging and labelling, sampling of high-risk foods and traditional festive delicacies, as well as enforcement action against industry players who fail to meet the stipulated standards,” he said.
Gooi added that throughout January this year, a total of 12 monitoring and inspection operations were carried out by food safety and quality units at district health offices across Penang, involving various enforcement agencies.
“As a result of these operations, 10 compound notices amounting to RM18,500 were issued for various offences, particularly incomplete labelling, expired food products, and damaged packaging.
“In addition, 145 food products worth nearly RM700 were seized. In terms of food sampling, one violation case was recorded and legal action was taken, resulting in a court fine of RM15,000,” he said.
Gooi noted that statistics also showed an increase in public complaints, reflecting rising consumer awareness and the availability of faster, more accessible, and user-friendly complaint channels.
He expressed his appreciation to members of the public for actively playing their part by being vigilant in food selection, ensuring cleanliness of premises, checking expiry dates, and reporting valid complaints to the authorities.
“At the same time, I urge manufacturers, importers, wholesalers, and food vendors to remain responsible and prioritise consumers’ rights to safe and quality food.
“Cooperation and collaboration among all relevant agencies must also continue to be strengthened to ensure food safety monitoring and enforcement activities are carried out effectively at every level,” he added.
Gooi also advised the public to practise safe food selection by applying the ‘look, smell, and taste’ concept before enjoying meals with family and loved ones.
“Food safety is a shared responsibility. The state government, through JKNPP, will continue to remain committed to safeguarding food safety and quality for the well-being of the people of Penang,” he said.
Also present at the event were Penang Health Director Datuk Dr Fazilah Shaik Allaudin and State Deputy Health Director (Public Health) Dr Rozaini Mat Shah.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siew Chia En