BINTULU: The Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) Health Enforcement Unit under the Public Health and Environment (PHE) Section recently carried out food hygiene and safety inspections at two popular food festivals Boyak Fest and Rasa Ria Fest to ensure compliance with the Food Hygiene Regulations (PPHO) 1999.
At Boyak Fest held at Emart, inspections were conducted on 27 food stalls, resulting in five compounds being issued under Section 26 of the PPHO 1999.
Meanwhile, at Rasa Ria Fest, 23 stalls were inspected and six compounds were issued for similar offences. In total, 11 compounds were issued across both events.
The offences mainly involved the failure to produce valid health inspection documents and food handler course certificates, which are compulsory under the regulations.
These requirements are in place to protect public health and ensure food operators practise proper hygiene standards.
During the inspections, food operators and handlers were reminded to maintain cleanliness at all times, including keeping premises and equipment sanitary and observing good personal hygiene.
Officials also stressed the importance of ensuring all relevant documentation is complete and up to date as proof of compliance with food safety laws.
The BDA Health Enforcement Unit reaffirmed its commitment to continuous monitoring and enforcement, noting that regular inspections will continue at food-related events and premises to safeguard consumers and uphold public health standards.
Food festivals such as Boyak Fest and Rasa Ria Fest attract large crowds, making food safety a critical concern. Authorities emphasised that compliance not only helps prevent health risks but also boosts consumer confidence in local food businesses.
Through strict enforcement of these regulations, BDA aims to ensure food operators in Bintulu maintain high hygiene standards, contributing to a safer and healthier community.
