Act now to tackle hygiene issues in Semporna, says Tiong

PETALING JAYA: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has ordered that immediate action be taken following food poisoning cases owing to poor hygiene in Semporna, Sabah.

This had resulted in some tourists suffering diarrhea and others having to be admitted to hospital, he added.

Tiong said he had received several complaints from travellers who visited Sempona regarding poor cleanliness there with a lot of rubbish left strewn about, causing a foul stench.

They also complained of food poisoning, pest infestation and poor hospitality services.

Tiong warned that a red notice would be issued if the situation persisted.

“I take these complaints seriously, and… this is not a new issue.

“This has been happening (for) the past few months, and I have stressed that relevant parties should take immediate action.

“However, I am disappointed that it is still recurring,” he said in a statement on Thursday (Aug 17).

Tiong added that he had raised the issue in a post-Cabinet meeting and a team led by his deputy will visit Sabah soon to conduct an inspection in Semporna.

“If these issues are not resolved, I will instruct the ministry to issue a red notice. This… cannot be avoided if the matter remains unresolved,” he said.

Tiong said poor hygiene should be taken seriously as it posed a risk to the health and safety of both the public and tourists.

“This… has a negative impact on the country’s tourism sector and tarnishes the image of our tourism industry,” he added.

He also pointed out that he had raised the issue with the state Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry on several occasions and requested an action plan.

“I hope immediate action will be taken. Previously, the tourist location had a good rating, but its performance has declined. This raises questions (whether or not) action (was) taken… on those complaints.

“All relevant parties, including resort owners, restaurants, hotels, local authorities and other related parties, need to take immediate action to improve all aspects related to tourism,” he said.