MPAJ fines 37 food handlers for flouting state’s mask ruling

Thirty-seven food and beverage (F&B) handlers in Ampang Jaya, Selangor, have been fined RM1,000 each for not wearing face masks since enforcement of the state government’s ruling began in July this year.

The compounds were issued by Ampang Jaya Municipal Council’s (MPAJ) Licensing Department officers under the Trade, Business and Industrial Licensing By-Law (MPAJ) 2007 between July 1 and Aug 25.

Dr Ani Ahmad, the MPAJ President, stated that there has been a slight improvement in compliance with the ruling, but it is still low.

Franchise restaurant workers generally abide by the ruling, but smaller eateries have not been as compliant.

Ani mentioned that enforcing the ruling is necessary because it is now a requirement for obtaining a business license.

The MPAJ will continue to advise food handlers regarding the importance of wearing face masks.

She believes that once they understand that wearing face masks is essential for food safety and hygiene, it will become a habit.

A previous report by StarMetro revealed that 90% of F&B operators were not wearing face masks, despite the Selangor government’s ruling implemented on January 1.

The MPAJ provided a six-month grace period until June before taking enforcement actions.

The council’s enforcement team, consisting of 280 members, is responsible for overseeing approximately 800 restaurants and 5,000 petty food traders within the municipality.

The ruling to wear face masks applies to all food handlers, including cooks, waiters, and hawkers.

This requirement is now a part of the license renewal condition for F&B operators starting this year.