17 Penang eateries lost cleanliness recognition last year
GEORGE TOWN: Seventeen food premises in Penang had their Bersih dan Selamat (BeSS) recognition withdrawn last year for failing to maintain required standards.
Seventeen food establishments in Penang had their Bersih dan Selamat (BeSS) recognition revoked in the previous year due to subpar cleanliness scores. The Penang Health Committee's chairman, Daniel Gooi, explained that the primary reason for withdrawal was the failure to meet the required 86 percent cleanliness threshold. Gooi also noted that some businesses lost their recognition when they relocated.
However, if they meet the necessary criteria again, they are given the chance to reapply and recover their recognition. Since the program's inception in Penang in 2018, approximately 400 eateries have received BeSS recognition. The award is granted to food premises that meet the standards set by the Health Ministry, focusing on cleanliness and food safety.
Gooi urged more food operators to voluntarily seek the recognition as a demonstration of their dedication to hygiene and food safety. The BeSS logo can also act as a guide for consumers when selecting food premises. Seeing this logo at a stall or establishment suggests that it meets the recommended criteria for cleanliness and safety in food preparation.
Gooi emphasized the importance of maintaining the recognition, as eateries are crucial locations where meals are prepared for the public. This was highlighted during the Premis Bersih, Bebas Asap (BeBAS) 2026 program at Food Bayana, where 19 food operators received the BeSS recognition. Food Bayana itself was bestowed with the Safe Food Hub status by the Health Ministry after 19 operators earned the BeSS certification.
The BeBAS program exemplifies how smoke-free initiatives can be implemented at a community level, particularly in food establishments frequented by the public daily. Since the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 came into effect on October 1, 2024, the Penang Health Department has continued its monitoring and enforcement efforts.
As of September 30, a total of 2,701 compounds had been issued for smoking-related violations at food premises in Penang, with an additional 254 compounds given to premise owners for not displaying no-smoking warning signs or providing smoking facilities. Operation Safe Lungs (PaPa), conducted across Penang on October 3, resulted in the issuance of 57 compounds for various infractions.
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